Pittwater Life October 2023 Issue

The Local Voice Since 1991 

OCTOBER 2023 

FREE 

pittwaterlife 

AVALON TRIAL EXTENDED 

REG MOMBASSA & PETER O’DOHERTY’S ‘DOG TRUMPET’ 

NEIL EVERS’ INDIGENOUS ‘LEARNING CURVE’ / POLICE BLITZ 

SEEN... HEARD... ABSURD... / CURRAWONG / THE WAY WE WERE

Editorial 

Pittwater suffers budget blues 

After reviewing the NSW 

Government’s first Budget, 

it seems difficult to disagree 

with Pittwater MP Rory Amon’s 

assessment that Labor is 

playing “postcode politics”. 

Pittwater was left wanting. 

The only good news was 

partial funding for urgently 

needed refurbishments at 

Narrabeen Sports High School. 

The fears we reported last 

month – that the Mona Vale 

Road West Upgrade would be 

canned – were on the money. 

And there is confusion 

over whether the Government 

has actually chipped in with 

its promised $13.1 million 

in additional funding for 

flood mitigation works on the 

Wakehurst Parkway. 

Minister for Roads John 

Graham has trumpeted the 

funding; however Mr Amon 

notes there is nothing in the 

lines of the budget – although 

other projects the government 

has committed to in other 

(Labor-held) seats have details 

about the cash pledged. 

Then again, it could well be 

NSW Labor has noted the years 

of delay on the Parkway works 

and figured they will come 

up with the cash if and when 

Council gets serious about the 

matter. 

* * * 

It’s not our job to tell you 

which way to vote in the 

October 14 referendum, which 

will determine whether the 

Federal Government establishes 

an Aboriginal and Torres Strait 

Islander Voice to parliament. 

However, we ask readers to 

do ‘due diligence’ and acquaint 

themselves with both the ‘yes’ 

and ‘no’ cases. 

We will though give voice to 

local identity Neil Evers, who 

discovered his Indigenous 

heritage 18 years ago, to have 

his say: “It’s a very modest 

request,” says Neil. 

Read his remarkable later-life 

story on page 44. – Nigel Wall 


OCTOBER 2023 3

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Publisher: Nigel Wall 

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* The complete Pittwater Life archive can be 

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Vol 34 No 3 

Celebrating 33 years 

32 

70 



FREE 

pittwaterlife 

AVALON TRIAL EXTENDED 

REG MOMBASSA & PETER O’DOHERTY’S ‘DOG TRUMPET’ 

NEIL EVERS’ INDIGENOUS ‘LEARNING CURVE’ / P OLICE BLIT Z 

SEEN... HEARD... ABSURD... / CURRAWONG / THE WAY WE WERE 

pi twater2310p001.indd 1 25/9/2023 5:57 pm 

44 

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thislife 

INSIDE: A blitz to identify any illegal selling of vapes has 

been urged (p9); La Nina has seen Narrabeen Beach expand 

more than any other Sydney beach (p10); Reg Mombassa and 

Peter O’Doherty are bringing their band Dog Trumpet to 

the Avalon RSL (p12); we review Currawong Cottages (p20); 

police have been targeting illegal cycling in Avalon (p25); 

local identity Neil Evers talks about his Aboriginal heritage; 

and we deliver a special report into resources available for 

local domestic abuse victims and the homeless (p54). 

COVER: Lion Island / Nada Herman (nada-art.com) 

also this month 

Editorial 3 

Pittwater Local News & Features 6-41 

The Way We Were 30 

Seen... Heard... Absurd... 32 

Community News 36-41 

Life Story: Aboriginal Support Group’s Neil Evers 44-47 

Art 48-49 

Hot Property 50-51 

Health & Wellbeing; Hair & Beauty 54-55 

Money; Law 62-65 

Trades & Services 66-69 

Food & Tasty Morsels 70-73 

Crossword 74 

Travel 79-82 

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OCTOBER 2023 The Local Voice Since 1991

News 

Sports High upgrades confirmed 

The Minns NSW Government has 

confirmed it will allocate around 

$20 million towards much-needed 

upgrades at Narrabeen Sports High 

School (NSHS). 

It follows an awareness campaign led 

by the school’s principal, its P&C Association 

as well as local MPs State and 

Federal MPs Rory Amon and Dr Sophie 

Scamps. 

However, the pledge represents approximately 

one third of the funding 

required to fully refurbish the dilapidated 

school. 

As reported in Pittwater Life last 

month, NSHS was named an Australian 

Olympic Pathway School in August. 

Mr Amon said that while the government’s 

funding announcement was 

welcome, he would continue to seek additional 

finding. 

“Thanks to the persistence of the 

school’s devoted staff and P&C, the 

Department of Education has confirmed 

that about $20 million will now be invested,” 

Mr Amon said. 

“Huge thanks must go to School 

Principal Heidi Currie, the P&C President 

James Wiggins and its Secretary Dr Peter 

McDonald. 

“When I visited the school in June, I 

THANKED: P&C President James Wiggins. 

was shocked at the state of the facilities. 

Local kids deserve better. They deserve 

an environment in which they can learn 

and thrive. 

“Narrabeen Sports High is a first-rate 

school, with first-rate teachers, students, 

and parents. The naming of the School 

as an Australian Olympic Pathway School 

is testament to this. 

“Unfortunately, we’ve been let down by 

PHOTO: Northern Beaches Advocate 

the physical state of the school.” 

In their August 2023 Project Update, 

School Infrastructure NSW confirmed 

upgrades for NSHS including the renewal 

and repairs for sciences labs, prep 

rooms, and chemical storerooms; the 

replacement of all roofs for five school 

buildings; new carpets, ceilings, paintwork; 

refurbishment of all bathrooms 

and changerooms; the resurfacing of 

outdoor basketball and tennis courts; 

plus cooler classrooms with aircon being 

delivered soon. 

In its 2023 Budget, the NSW Government 

confirmed a total of $53.9 million 

towards NHS and Narrabeen North Primary 

School – funding that was previously 

committed to by the former Liberal 

Government. 

“These upgrades are a huge step 

forward. However, this is just the first 

phase of upgrades required,” said Mr 

Amon. 

He revealed he had requested up to 

$30 million more from the Government 

to ensure all necessary upgrades of NSHS 

could be completed. 

An online community petition set up 

by Mr Amon to urge the Government for 

more funds has so far amassed thousands 

of signatures. – Nigel Wall 

8 OCTOBER 2023 

The Local Voice Since 1991

Blitz urged to detect illegal vapes 

Pittwater politicians have 

united to oppose the 

promotion of vapes and their 

potential illegal sale across 

the peninsula. 

It follows the opening of a 

stream of new ‘confectionary’ 

stores at Newport and Avalon 

selling nicotine-free vapes. 

Pittwater State MP Rory 

Amon says the NSW Government 

should put measures in 

place to identify whether shop 

owners in NSW are illegally 

selling nicotine-based vapes 

to children under 18. 

And Mackellar Federal MP 

Dr Sophie Scamps is alarmed 

by the tobacco and e-cigarette 

industry specifically targeting 

children through brightly 

coloured, lollipop-flavoured 

vapes, which she says were 

typically illegally imported 

and often contained high 

levels of nicotine despite being 

labelled as nicotine-free. 

NSW Health reports it is 

illegal to sell e-cigarettes, 

e-cigarette accessories, and 

tobacco products to anyone 

under 18 years old. 

Also, it is illegal for retailers 

(other than pharmacies) to sell 

e-cigarettes or e-liquids that 

contain nicotine, including 

online sales. E-cigarettes that 

do not contain nicotine are 

legal in NSW. 

In a letter to NSW Health 

Minister Ryan Park, Mr Amon 

said prevalent vaping among 

children including across 

Pittwater was having ongoing 

health impacts on kids. 

“Kids are too easily obtaining 

vapes. Advertising of 

vapes is illegal, yet it seems 

to continue unchallenged by 

Government,” he said. 

He said he was deeply concerned 

that violations of the 

Public Health (Tobacco) Act 

were common. 

Mr Amon urged the Government 

to apply “laser-focused 

attention” to the issue and 

launch an undercover blitz 

on stores and individuals 

that may be selling vapes to 

children. 

He called for fines to be 

FOCUS: Vaping. 

increased 10-fold: “This would 

increase the fine on individuals 

from $11,000 to $110,000 

and it would increase the fine 

on a corporation from $55,000 

to $550,000. This strong 

message will help change 

behaviour.” 

He also urged the immediate 

roll-out of vape detectors 

in all NSW schools. 

Dr Scamps told Pittwater 

Life: “Nicotine is one of the 

most highly addictive substances 

in existence and so for 

young people vaping can act 

as a gateway drug to smoking. 

“What is particularly alarming 

is that a new shop at Newport 

is located very close to a 

main bus stop used by school 

children. So as a parent, a 

doctor and an MP, I support 

the Newport local community’s 

opposition to this new 

e-cigarette store.” 

Dr Scamps applauded the 

Federal Government’s recent 

announcement to ban the importation 

of non-prescription 

vaping products. 

“But these laws take time 

to come into effect, so in the 

meantime we need to continue 

to stand up for our children 

so they can go to school and 

socialise in environments that 

promote their health rather 

than harm it.” 

Pittwater Life does not suggest 

the new shops at Newport 

and Avalon are engaging in 

any illegal activity. 

– Nigel Wall 

*What do you think? Tell us 

at readers@pittwaterlife.com. 

News 



News 

Narrabeen sand clearance underway 

Northern Beaches Council 

is preparing to excavate 

more than 20,000 cubic metres 

(40,000 tonnes) of sand – 

equivalent to the weight of 100 

jumbo jets – from the entrance 

of Narrabeen Lagoon. 

It comes as North Narrabeen 

Beach has been identified as 

having experienced the single 

biggest sand growth change of 

any beach in Sydney over the 

past 12 months. 

Council’s latest round of 

flood mitigation works will 

see up to 200 truckloads of 

sand, from east and west of 

the Ocean Street Bridge, carted 

and deposited each day on the 

Collaroy-Narrabeen beachfront 

between Goodwin and Stuart 

Streets. 

Works are expected be completed 

by early December. 

Mayor Sue Heins said the 

works were part of Council’s 

Narrabeen Lagoon Entrance 

Management Strategy and 

based on flood risk management 

studies. 

“Narrabeen Lagoon is one of 

our greatest natural waterways 

FLOOD MITIGATION: 

Sand clearance 

works at the mouth 

of Narrabeen 

Lagoon in 2018. 

but as locals know all too well, 

it is prone to flooding,” Mayor 

Heins said. 

“Council has a strategy to 

manage the lagoon entrance to 

minimise the risk of flooding, 

backed by research and analysis 

by coastal experts. 

“It includes more frequent 

sand clearance operations, as 

well as reshaping and revegetating 

sand dunes to assist 

with sand stabilisation.” 

Since 1975, entrance clearance 

operations have been 

used as the key process to 

remove sand from Narrabeen 

Lagoon entrance. 

Historically, entrance 

clearance works have been 

completed approximately 

every three to five years, with 

the volume of sand removed 

generally ranging from 

28,000m3 (56,000 tonnes) to 

50,000m3 (100,000 tonnes) per 

campaign. 

In 2018, entrance clearance 

works were carried out over 

11 weeks from September to 

December, with approximately 

61,000 tonnes (31,000m3) of 

sand removed and transported 

to Collaroy-Narrabeen Beach. 

During the last clearance, 

from September to December 

2021, approximately 56,000 

tonnes (28,000m3) of sand was 

trucked to Collaroy-Narrabeen. 

Council’s new strategy is 

based on a recommendation 

to remove smaller amounts of 

sand every two years, depending 

on factors including the 

width of North Narrabeen 

Beach (based on decadal beach 

rotation), which affects the supply 

of sand near the entrance. 

North Narrabeen Beach is 

the widest it has been for up 

to 40 years, with 59 metres 

of sand added since last year 

– the biggest change experienced 

by any Sydney beach. 

As a result, Council says 

there are vast quantities of 

sand next to the entrance that 

can rapidly fill the entrance 

during storm events and close 

it more frequently. 

To ensure public safety, 

Birdwood Dune car park will 

be closed for the duration 

of works and there will be 

parking and pedestrian access 

restrictions during work 

hours at Mactier and Wetherill 

Streets. 




News 

Blowing their own Trumpet 

Interview by Greg McHugh 

The Dog Trumpet caravan driven by 

brothers Reg Mombassa and Peter 

O’Doherty is heading around the 

Bilgola Bends for a gig at Avalon RSL on 

7 October. 

On the road with their latest album 

for the Shadowland Tour Part 2, Dog 

Trumpet will bring their distinctive mix 

of folk, blues, psychedelia and incisive 

lyrics to the Northern Beaches. 

Reg and Peter are musicians, artists 

and Mental as Anything and Mambo 

royalty. Ahead of their show, Pittwater 

Life posed a few questions on their links 

to Avalon, the value of music and art and 

their thoughts on each other. 

Q: What connection do you have to Avalon 

and Avalon Beach RSL? 

Peter: My family came over from New 

Zealand when I was 10 to settle in Avalon 

so I finished my junior years at Avalon 

Primary and then went to Barrenjoey 

High. The RSL was one of the watering 

holes I spent some time in, usually 

watching bands such as regular late-’70s 

local favourites the Bilgola Bop Band. 

Q: Dog Trumpet at Avalon Beach RSL – 

what can we expect ? 

Reg: You can expect to hear original 

songs from our new album. Plus a 

good selection of songs from our previous 

albums and a few of our favourite 

covers. 

Q: The Ballad of Clayton Looby on your 

latest album Shadowland draws on 

memories of the Northern Beaches in 

the 1970s. Can you tell us more about 

the inspiration for the song? 

Peter: The song is a mix of my memories 

growing up on the Northern Beaches and 

fragments of Clayton’s story. Clayton 

went through school with me. We were 

in the same year. He was a very colourful 

character, someone I was a bit scared of 

in the early years but grew closer to later 

as we developed common interests apart 

from the beach – music, art and associated 

extra-curricular lifestyle activities. He 

was a strong-willed and funny larrikin, 

totally fearless, a great surfer, sailor, 

pirate and adventurer who experienced 

extremes most never will. 

Q: Are the song lyrics “The first job I 

ever had, was pumping petrol afternoons 

and nights” and “Round the 

bends with the flashing lights, Behind 

us gonna push our luck tonight” references 

to particular Northern Beaches 

locations? 

Peter: Yeah, the lyrics pivot from my 

teenage perspective to Clayton’s. I had 

a job working after school and weekends 

at the BP station in Curl Curl, right 

behind the beach in those days. They are 

the Bilgola Bends [referenced], riffing 

on a story about Clayton and his mate 

being chased by the cops. I heard they 

got as far as Mona Vale before getting 

stopped. He could be very naughty and 

reckless. Unfortunately, life caught up 

and he passed away in Bali about three 

years ago. 

Q: Does your music come before your 

art (or vice versa); or do each come 

from the same creative place? 

Reg: I was keenly drawing pictures as a 

child before I started playing an instrument 

but both creative activities come 

from the same portion of the brain. Some 

of the ideas and themes that concern me 

appear in songs and pictures. 

Peter: Both are in competition with each 

other but come from the same place, the 

only part of the brain I’ve arguably managed 

to utilise usefully. 

Q: How important are music and art? 

Reg: Less important than food, sex, 

housing and death but way more important 

than just about everything else. A 

society without art and music would be a 

grim and gloomy prospect. 



LOCAL CONNECTION: Brothers Reg Mombassa and Peter O’Doherty. 

Peter: As a child I was always drawing 

and wanted to be an artist when I grew 

up, so I’ve been fortunate to be able to 

keep it up throughout. Music came second, 

I started playing guitar when I was 

about 14 and knew a couple of years in 

that I didn’t want to do anything else. 

Q: If you could pick one band or musician 

to see up close, who would it be 

and why? 

Reg: I would like to see the Auckland 

band The Underdogs Blues Band playing 

Sitting in the Rain, so I could see what 

sort of fuzz box the lead guitarist was using 

to get his excellent bassy fuzz tone. 

Peter: Could be anyone from Taj Mahal, 

Ry Cooder, the Faces, Wes Montgomery, 

but though she’s gone, Nina Simone 

would have been great to see play live. 

She was a phenomenal singer and 

pianist, mercurial and original, blending 

Bach with blues, jazz, pop and civil 

rights to make something totally distinctive 

and unique. 

Q: Is there a particular focus for your 

art at the moment? 

Reg: Apart from landscapes which I’m always 

interested in, I’m currently dealing 

with robots, AI and space creatures. 

Peter: I try and paint every day; it’s like 

playing an instrument, keep the momentum 

up so as to get the conscious mind 

out of the way as much as possible and 

keep the hands loose. I paint the world 

around me, houses and flats, streets, 

sinks, chairs, trying to convey the familiar 

without illustrating it literally. 

Q: Describe each other in a few words? 

Reg (on Peter): He is not very tall and has 

fluffy whitish hair. 

Peter (on Reg): I described Reg accurately 

in a song I wrote for the Mentals 

called Dorothy Parker’s Hair. The chorus 

is: “Dorothy Parker’s hair was, Dark 

and listless, Just like my hippy brother 

Chris’”. Spoiler alert: Reg’s real name is 

Chris. And his hair may not be as dark 

as it was! 

*More info avalonrsl.com.au 

News 



News 

Powerful message to protect owls 

Amidst Sydney’s hustle, a quiet drama 

unfolds after sunset every day – the 

Powerful Owl emerges. These commanding 

birds, with their intense gaze and 

predator aura, are the focus of a conservation 

mission across Sydney – including on 

the Northern Beaches. 

As Dr Holly Parsons – Urban Bird 

Program Manager at BirdLife Australia – 

explains, the Powerful Owl Project is not 

only shedding light on these enigmatic 

raptors but also seeks community support 

to secure their place in our ecosystem. 

“The Powerful Owl is a serious player 

in the bird hierarchy,” Dr Parsons said. 

“With a wingspan up to 1.4 metres and a 

taste for possums (and other tree-dwelling 

wildlife), they are a special member of 

Sydney’s urban bird community. 

“But this bird is classified as vulnerable 

in NSW.” 

Dr Parsons noted that prior to the 

2000s, Powerful Owls were incredibly rare 

in Sydney, but things had changed. “While 

still not ‘common’, Sydney is now home to 

many more,” she said. 

“In 2022 there were 176 territories 

monitored, with the north side of the harbour 

holding the majority of the breeding 

territories. 

“In particular, the Northern Beaches 

is ‘Powerful Owl central’, with 35 pairs 

breeding in 2022, of which 20 are currently 

being monitored.” 

But life in the city can be hard for 

Powerful Owls. Last year El Nina and its 

accompanying significant rainfall saw 

higher than average breeding failures. 

“Overall they are losing places to 

live, raise families, eat and move about 

through urban expansion,” Dr Parsons 

observed. 

“Alongside the clearing of habitat, 

car and window strike, electrocution, 

rodenticide poisoning, inappropriate night 

lighting and degradation of creeks are all 

emerging threats for urban owls.” 

Founder of local swimwear label Shapes 

In The Sand, Alexandra Dash, is helping 

spread awareness within her Pittwater 

PROJECT: A mother and fledgling; the Northern Beaches is ‘Powerful Owl Central’. 

community for the Powerful Owl Project 

Along with Dr Parsons, their goal is to 

give others a better understanding of the 

project, the impact humans have on this 

threatened species and ways community 

can help. 

“The Powerful Owl Project is a scienceled 

community-based initiative,” said 

Dr Parsons. “We have monitored and 

researched Powerful Owls across Greater 

Sydney since 2011, educating land managers 

and the general community about 

building habitat to conserve Powerful 

Owls.” 

Dr Parsons said there are ways for 

locals to help: 

Spread the Word – “The more people who 

know about them and how to help them, 

the better.” 

Native Plants: “Put local trees and plants 

in your yard. We not only need native 

trees for the owls to roost in, but we also 

need trees and shrubs that will support 

their prey.” 

Protect hollow-bearing trees – “It takes 

well over 100 years for hollows large 

enough for Powerful Owls to use for 

breeding to form. So the loss of each 

HBT puts an even tighter squeeze on our 

wildlife.” 

Skip the poison – “If you have to deal with 

rodents, avoid the common rat poisons.” 

Volunteer – “Send an email if you are 

interested in coming on board.” 

Donate – You can also support the Powerful 

Owl Project through a donation to 

BirdLife Australia. 

Readers can also support The Powerful 

Owl Project by purchasing a swimsuit 

from Shapes In The Sand’s new Back to 

Nature capsule collection, $10 from each 

purchase donated (shapesinthesand.com. 

au). 


*More info and donations via birdlife.org. 

au; report sightings by emailing powerfulowl@birdlife.org.au 

PHOTO: Andrew Gregory 



News 

Lizard Rock 

‘secrecy’ a concern 

Wakehurst 

MP Michael 

Regan has 

accused the NSW 

Government 

of acting in 

secrecy following 

its decision 

to progress 

the proposed 

Lizard Rock 

FIRE RISK: 

Lizard Rock. 

development to the next stage of 

planning. 

Mr Regan said the decision by the 

NSW Department of Planning comes 

despite vehement opposition from the 

community and Northern Beaches 

Council and after the Metropolitan 

Local Aboriginal Land Council (MLALC) 

submitted amended plans which the 

public were not made aware of. 

“The lack of transparency that has 

characterised this process is of huge 

concern,” Mr Regan said. “The proposal 

for 450 homes at Lizard Rock that would 

result in the destruction of bushland in 

Belrose equivalent to the size 46 football 

fields has progressed to the next stage 

of planning and is now open for public 

consultation,” Mr Regan said. 

“I also note the proposal has a new 

name – the Patyegarang Planning 

Proposal – to demonstrate the significant 

cultural and environmental significance 

of the site. 

“Whether the planning proposal is 

called Lizard Rock or Patyegarang, it 

doesn’t change the substance of the 

issue – that this is an unsustainable and 

dangerous proposal. 

“To date the 

private panel 

appointed by 

the previous 

Coalition 

Government 

has ignored 

the community 

and ignored 

independent 

experts who all 

say this is a terrible proposal and that it 

should never have progressed this far. 

“The Minns Government needs to kill 

this proposal off and find alternative 

sites for the developer. 

“The previous Government along with 

Council knocked back development 

proposals at nearby Ingleside for similar 

reasons. The site is a fire zone and 

building here will put thousands of 

people at risk. 

“As the Minns Government has also 

flagged, greenfield development where 

native trees and vegetation is destroyed 

for housing is not sustainable. 

“(Lizard Rock) is unsustainable, 

costly as new essential services and 

infrastructure will need to be built from 

scratch, and dangerous – potentially 

putting thousands of people in a highrisk 

fire zone. 

“Even the picture chosen by the 

Planning Department for use on the 

online portal clearly demonstrates the 

environmental destruction that could be 

about to occur at this site. 

“Have we not learned anything from 

previous bushfires and other poor 

planning proposals? Clearly not.” – NW 

Beaches’ 

unresolved 

land claims 

Northern Beaches Council says it is 

aware of several unresolved land 

claims under the NSW Aboriginal Land 

Rights Act across its 30-kilometres-long 

Local Government Area. 

In September, it was revealed that a 2009 

land claim made by the Metropolitan Local 

Aboriginal Land Council (MLALC) on 2,500 

square metres of harbourfront bushland 

adjoining Balmoral Beach at Mosman had 

progressed to assessment phase. 

The claim blindsided Mosman Councillors 

who said they were unaware of its existence. 

The Councillors voted against the claim 

at their September meeting; however local 

Government is not empowered to halt 

the process under the Act, with the NSW 

Government’s Crown Lands department the 

authority. 

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins told 

Pittwater Life: “Council is supportive of the 

intent of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act. We 

appreciate the importance of enabling 

Aboriginal people to achieve economic selfdetermination 

through land claims, subject 

to the relevant planning controls. 

“We seek to foster strong relationships 

with the MLALC, as well as our local 

Aboriginal communities generally.” 

If a claim on land within the Northern 

Beaches under the Aboriginal Land Rights 

Act were to be successful, the land can 

be developed by the MLALC subject to 

planning legislation (an example is the 

current process at Lizard Rock, Belrose). 

Pittwater Life was not told of the locations 

of unresolved claims on the Northern 

Beaches, or when they were lodged. 

– NW 



Mental health care next steps 

The NSW Government has confirmed it is reviewing new 

options for acute mental health care at Northern Beaches 

Hospital. 

It follows the expiry of a six-week deadline the Government 

imposed on Northern Beaches Hospital to communicate a clear 

plan for the delivery of a fourbed 

acute adolescent mental 

health unit, funded to the tune 

of $7.5 million by the former 

NSW Liberal Government in 

mid-2022. 

The delay in establishing the 

unit has been roundly criticised 

by local politicians including 

Mackellar MP Dr Sophie Scamps. 

Following what she believes 

are further “stonewalling 

tactics” by the hospital and 

its operator Healthscope, Dr 

Scamps has now launched a 

community petition aimed at 

pressuring hospital management 

to act urgently (see ad page 47). 

NSW Health Minister Jackson 

told Pittwater Life she shared 

and completely understood the 

community’s frustration with 

the delays to the project. 

“NSW Health has presented 

several options which I am 

currently reviewing,” she said. 

“Before a final decision is 

made, I am committed to working with key stakeholders to 

ensure we provide the best long-term solution for our youth.” 

She conceded that as a response to existing demand for 

acute mental health support, Northern Beaches Hospital had 

developed an interim model of care which had been admitting 

young people requiring hospital-based support for acute 

mental health concerns since January. 

“My office has reached out to Dr Scamps to ensure we are 

providing the most up-to-date information on this crucial 

situation.” 

Meanwhile, Pittwater Life can reveal a State Significant 

Development Application (SSDA) has been lodged with NSW 

PHOTO: Justin Lloyd / Daily Telegraph 

PETITION: Dr Scamps at Northern Beaches Hospital. 

planning authorities for a proposed 80-bed private mental 

health hospital at Frenchs Forest which would meet the growing 

demand for treatment, including a specific focus on teenagers. 

The developer initially had its application for a six-storey 

facility on a former warehouse site in Tilley Lane approved 

in 2017 but is now seeking 

expansion to eight storeys 

accommodating in-house 

and outpatient mental health 

treatment. 

Dr Scamps said young people 

needed specialised inpatient 

care on the Northern Beaches. 

“The closest specialist, 

public facility that offers acute 

adolescent mental health 

inpatient care is in Hornsby but 

for our children and families, 

this is too far away,” she said. 

“At a time when we have 

a youth mental health crisis 

on the Northern Beaches, it’s 

simply not good enough that the 

management at the Northern 

Beaches Hospital haven’t even 

committed to a timeline for 

these beds. 

“Enough is enough. These 

beds should be operational by 

Christmas, and if they’re not – 

the management at the Hospital 

should be replaced.” 

In response, Northern Beaches Hospital CEO Andrew Newton 

said all children and young people presenting to Northern 

Beaches Hospital for acute mental health care were currently 

able to receive this help under a new model of care established 

earlier this year. 

“Children and adolescents are able to be cared for as 

inpatients in dedicated mental health beds,” he said. 

“Two child and youth psychiatrists are now appointed by the 

hospital, adding to the current multidisciplinary team available 

to care for children and adolescents at the hospital. 

“Since January 2023, approximately 30 patients have been 

admitted to receive care through this model. – Nigel Wall 

News 



News 

With bells on! 

Phil Allan’s passion for 

miniature handbells 

began when his wife 

Pam bought one of their 

granddaughters a set of 

children’s handbells. 

The granddaughter is 

now 17, and strangely no 

longer has any interest in 

handbells. 

However, Phil became 

obsessed, is now a prominent 

member of the Handbells 

Society of Australasia (yes, 

it stretches to New Zealand) 

and gave a speech on 

the Australian history of 

handbells to the Combined 

Probus Club of Mona Vale 

meeting at Pittwater RSL 

last month. With handbell 

accompaniment of course. PASSION: Aficianado Phil Allan runs ‘rings’ around his dining room. 

“Handbells came to 

Australia around 1850 with 

“each the size of upturned “And I prefer songs my 

the first settlers from Britain 

teacups and with a two-octave mum and dad loved – like 

and Europe,” Phil, now in his 

range… people love them Grenada, the Sound of Music 

80s, told Pittwater Life. 

because they have never seen and South Pacific.” 

“It was quite common in or heard them before”. 

Any money Phil and his 

those days to invite people to When Phil began playing handbells earn go to Brian 

your home, have dinner and publicly he would play 1960s and Kathy Cox, a young 

then play handbells. 

“That lasted until the 1920s 

and ’30s when films and radio 

became alternative sources of 

entertainment,” he explained. 

“But handbells made a 

comeback in the 1960s when 

two American companies 

rock songs. Now his audience 

mostly consists of the over- 

70s – at Probus, Rotary, VIEW 

clubs, retirement homes and 

his local Belrose church once 

a month. 

He recommends readers 

watch a live performance of a 

missionary couple in Nigeria, 

translating the Bible into 

various African languages. 

“Pam is overjoyed that 

I have a hobby,” Phil says. 

“Though she has kicked me 

out of the dining room and 

made me rehearse in the 

reintroduced them. America, handbell choir on YouTube. garage.” – Steve Meacham 

Asia and Europe are now very 

big on handbells.” 

Phil’s own set consists of 

25 miniature metal handbells 

“Handbell choirs generally 

have between 15 and 20 

players,” Phil explains. “But I 

play solo. 

*More info PAllan28@ 

bigpond.com; or Handbells 

Society of Australasia 

website handbell.org.au 

PHOTO: Pam Allan. 

6THINGS 

THIS MONTH 

Natural Heritage talk. Discover 

what the Pittwater Natural 

Heritage Association has been 

doing and hear from wildlife 

rescuer Lynleigh Greig about the 

challenges for Spring, the Mobile 

Care Unit, and local snakes at 

their 2023 AGM on Sun 8 from 

1.30pm at the Newport Community 

Centre. RSVP to pnhainfo@gmail. 

com for afternoon tea catering. 

Weaving workshop. Experience 

First Nations culture through a 

relaxed, hands-on workshop with 

guest speaker, Noongar basket 

weaver Jodie Dowd, on Sat 14 

from 10am-12pm at Mona Vale 

Creative Space 1/1 Park Street. 

Cost $10 plus booking fee includes 

materials and refreshments. Book 

on Council website. 

Composting course. Find out 

everything you’d possibly want to 

know about how to successfully 

run a compost bin and worm 

farm when experts from Kimbriki 

Eco House and Garden host a 

workshop at Avalon Public School 

on Sat 14 from 1-4pm. Costs 

$30pp/$50 a family. You may 

even be eligible for a $90 voucher 

courtesy of NB Council towards 

buying a worm farm or compost 

bin (Ts&Cs apply). Bookings 

essential on Kimbriki website. 

Hoarding help. Join Kristina the 

Decluttering Diva who will help 

demystify Hoarding Disorder on 

Mon 23 from 11am-12pm. Whether 

you’re a concerned family member, 

a healthcare professional, or 

simply curious about this complex 

condition, this online event is for 

you. Free; contact belongclub@ 

ccnb.com.au 

Love interiors? Sydney Design 

School is opening its studios 

on Sat 28 from 10am-12pm 

where you can meet passionate 

educators, view the exhibition 

space and gets hands-on building 

an interiors mood board or 3D 

model on campus at 65 Berry 

St North Sydney. More info at 

sydneydesignschool.com. 

Author talk. Avalon Library is 

hosting author Chris Hammer 

with his new book Seven in 

conversation with Michael 

Robotham at 6pm on Mon 30. 

Bookings at the library or phone 

8495 5080. 



Cabin fever: the hot 

News 

On a balmy Spring day at Currawong, 

roughly opposite Barrenjoey 

headland, Pittwater has 

never looked better. The gum trees are 

blooming, the sands are exposed and the 

water named after British Prime Minister 

William Pitt The Younger is as blue and 

blissful as ever. 

Currawong has existed for more than 

a century, since the original homestead 

– Midholme – was purchased by Dr Bernard 

Stiles in 1917. 

Before that, of course, the land was 

shared by the Garigal people who hunted 

and fished in what is now Ku-ring-gai 

National Park. 

For six decades, Currawong was a union 

retreat – offering workers, schoolkids 

and educational bodies the chance to see 

how the other half live. 

Of its 20 hectares, most is pristine 

native bushland. Only four hectares is 

developed, and then only sparingly with 

just 10 cottages sprinkled along the 

lower slopes and the 9-hole golf course. 

I am staying in Goanna, one of the 

newly refurbished heritage-listed cottages 

(and one of only three with ensuites 

rather than outdoor dunnies). 

The nine cottages vary in comfortability. 

Two still need to be renovated to 

Heritage/Council standards. 

There are three other Currawong properties 

to rent. Midholme (which can sleep 

16), Caretaker’s and the Lodge, built as 

a conference centre but also capable of 

housing multiple youth groups. 

However, it is a miracle – championed 

by former MP Rob Stokes on the back of a 

strong community push by the Friends of 

Currawong– that the renamed Currawong 

Beach Cottages resort is open at all. 

ROOM WITH A VIEW: Looking out over Pittwater from Platypus Cottage. 

Irish settler Martin Burke – the socalled 

Father of Pittwater – was granted 

the land in 1823. During World War II it 

was owned briefly by the Port Jackson 

and Manly Steamship Company which 

purchased the property for day trips 

aboard its Currawong Star and Rambler 

Star ferries. Yet it is the 60-odd years 

when Currawong was owned by Labour 

Council of NSW (now Unions NSW) that 

earned the entire site its heritage rating. 

In 1947, The Sydney Morning Herald 

wrote that Currawong – still only accessed 

by water – was “an intact remaining 

example of a mid-20th century, unionorganised 

workers’ holiday camp in NSW, 

designed for workers to get away from 

crowded industrial areas and enjoy places 

normally frequented by richer people”. 

It was sold by Unions NSW to developers 

in 2008. To rescue a significant part 

of Pittwater history, it was placed on the 

State Heritage Register, acquired by the 

NSW Government in 2011 and claimed 

Crown Land. 

Now after COVID, the refurbished 

site – owned by the state and managed by 

Northern Beaches Council – is open again 

to both day-trippers and overnight guests. 

Cathie and Adam Oliver arrived as the 

new managers in July, but they have been 

coming since 2006. 

PHOTO: Steve Meacham 



tip on Currawong 

“Our two daughters, Charlotte and 

April, grew up here,” says Adam. “We’d 

bring them every May, renting out the 

whole place for 20 years. 

“Currawong is a place lots of families 

and friends came back to every year,” 

Cathie adds. “Not many spent much time 

in the cabins. They’d spend time on the 

beach or in the bush.” 

Both Cathie and Adam had worked for 

Qantas, but quit to gain specialist hospitality 

skills when they knew Currawong 

was soon to reopen. 

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins 

says: “the eco retreat…(is) a truly serene 

escape from everyday life”. 

The first of the existing cabins – Kenny’s, 

named after James Kenny (the union 

leader who persuaded his colleagues 

to buy Currawong) and now known as 

Blue Tongue Cottage – was built in 1943 

on the expansive beachfront. 

The others were completed before 

1953, following the landline towards the 

escarpment overlooking Pittwater – often 

using discarded building materials rescued 

from the tip by foresighted workers. 

So, what has changed? Well, there’s 

still no sign of the shark-netted swimming 

area proposed by the Port Jackson 

and Manly Steamship Company in 1943. 

On the other hand, two of the original 

cabins – Kookaburra and Platypus, built 

to plans by the Vandyke Brothers with 

their new-fangled prefabricated model of 

building – have survived, along with the 

unforgettable Pittwater vistas and sense 

of serenity. 

Seven have been fully restored with 

amenity improvements (with Platypus 

retaining much of the original material 

due to its high heritage significance). The 

remaining two have had minor restorations 

including a new roof to one of them. 

The upgrades to Blue Tongue, Kookaburra, 

Goanna and the games room 

building resulted in Northern Beaches 

Council winning the Building Designers 

Association of Australia Design Awards 

for adaptive re-use of heritage buildings. 

ONSITE: New managers Cathie and Adam Oliver. COMFY: Inside the refurbished Goanna Cottage. 

Cathie is keen to take me on a tour of 

the accommodation. 

However, Adam – who is catching a 

ferry to Palm Beach – insists the golf 

buggy his wife is driving goes first to the 

golf course. Past the tennis/volleyball 

courts and the indoor recreational hut to 

keep kids happy if it happens to rain. 

There is method in Adam’s madness. 

Not only does he keep the now 9-hole 

course impeccably manicured, but golf is 

an essential part of Currawong’s DNA. 

There is a trophy called the ‘Currawong 

Cup’ in the reception. It is still 

eagerly contested each year (the last was 

in September 2023). 

Golfers from the Northern Beaches have 

kept Currawong financial for many years. 

With Adam gone – either of them will 

put the ‘flag’ out to ensure the Palm 

Beach ferry captain knows when to pull 

into the wharf – she shows me some 

of the finer key design features in the 

cabins. (Although I still don’t know what 

‘penny tiles’ are.) 

There are always drawbacks in ‘Eden’. 

Here, you have to bring and cook your 

own food. There are no TVs, and little WiFi 

(“unless you hotspot”, whatever that is). 

Cathie also warns me about the wildlife… 

rock wallabies, spiders, and goannas. 

But on this visit the closest I got to 

wildlife was the magpie who munched 

my morning muesli. 

Accommodation prices from $275 per 

cabin, per night. Minimum stay four 

nights in summer, two nights at other 

times. Phone 9974 4141 or book through 

Northern Beaches Council. 

– Steve Meacham 

*The author was a guest of Currawong 

Cottages. 

News 



News 

Ambulance upheaval 

‘will put lives at risk’ 

Pittwater MP Rory Amon 

says the NSW’s Government’s 

shock decision to 

close the Narrabeen Ambulance 

Station will put upper- 

Peninsula residents’ lives at 

risks. 

The Minister for Health 

announced plans to close the 

Narrabeen station on the back 

of an announcement that the 

Government would be opening 

a new station at Dee Why. 

“The Labor Government 

announcement to close the 

Narrabeen station blindsided 

local paramedics,” Mr Amon 

said. 

“They justified this closure 

on the basis that a new Ambulance 

Station would be built 

at Dee Why. But when the 

Budget was handed down (on 

September 19), there was not 

a cent of funding for a Dee 

Why Ambulance station.” 

NSW Ambulance has since 

confirmed that services 

would continue being delivered 

from Narrabeen station 

“until services commence at 

the proposed new Dee Why 

station, at which point the 

current paramedics and ambulances 

will relocate.” 

But Mr Amon slammed the 

Northern Beaches Council 

has abandoned its usual 

tender process and will 

appoint a commercial real 

estate agent to negotiate 

a lease for the Avalon 

Beach Surf Club’s café 

and restaurant spaces 

after negotiations with its 

preferred operator broke 

down. 

Council had been hopeful 

the café would be open for 

Summer trading after entering 

talks with Aimelie Pty 

Ltd with a view to an initial 

six-month lease period. 

While negotiations were initially 

progressing positively, 

Council said business owner 

Emilie Mathel had decided to 

withdraw his interest. 

It’s a further stumbling 

CONCERN: Rory Amon. 

Government for not providing 

clarity on how vital 

ambulance services would be 

redistributed once it closed 

the Narrabeen station. 

“Currently, there are no 

intensive care paramedics 

north of Narrabeen, there 

are no night-shift paramedics 

at Mona Vale Ambulance 

Station and there is only one 

paramedic team around the 

clock at Avalon Ambulance 

Station – but they do not treat 

intensive care patients,” Mr 

block to the resumption of 

hospitality offerings at the 

site, which has remained vacant 

for more than two years. 

It also reveals the hesitancy 

within the hospitality 

industry about investing in 

the location. 

During its official tender 

process, Council received 

only two submissions for the 

restaurant and café and two 

submissions for the cafe. 

Council conceded that 

over the past few years it 

had received a low number 

of submissions for its 

hospitality public tenders. 

In choosing to engage with 

the market not via a tender, 

Council said it “hoped to 

tap into a wider network 

of potential operators who 

Amon said. 

“Moving resources from 

Narrabeen further south 

would put lives at risk. 

“The Government must 

commit to maintaining 

service levels in Pittwater. It 

must also consult the community 

as to future uses of 

the Narrabeen Ambulance 

Station, if it is to close,” he 

said. 


*What do you think? Tell 

us at readers@pittwaterlife. 

com.au 

New delay for surf club cafe 

may be attracted to the 

opportunity, increasing the 

chances of finding a suitable 

lessee”. 

“By engaging a leasing 

agent, Council can uphold a 

competitive market process 

while ensuring the probity 

and arm’s length transaction, 

which is typically associated 

with a tender, is maintained.” 

Council’s Chief Executive 

Officer Scott Phillips will 

review the proposed tenants, 

before committing to lease 

arrangements. 

The sourcing of a tenant 

is considered a priority – 

“ideally looking to identify 

someone that can operate at 

least the café space during 

the majority of the 2023/24 

summer season”. – Nigel Wall 



Funny business after dark 

STAND-UP FUN: Lewis Holt and wife Hannah; comedian Tom Orr on stage at 4 Pines Newport. 

News 

Did you hear the one about the man 

bringing comedy to the Northern 

Beaches, hoping to turn his ‘passion 

project’ into a full-time job? 

“I’m doing something that combines my 

two loves in life: craft beer and comedy,” 

explains entrepreneur and comic Lewis 

Holt. 

Surely the dream of a lot of people, 

Lewis is slowly seeing his vision become 

a reality, after successfully introducing 

comedy nights to selected venues on the 

peninsula. His business Canned Laughter 

(a play on words for those two loves) may 

eventually see Lewis laugh all the way to 

the bank. 

“The first event was in Avalon last 

October, and since then it’s really taken 

off,” explains Lewis. “We did six gigs in 

May, at venues including Avalon Bowlo, 4 

Pines in Newport, and Freshwater Brewing 

in Brookvale.” 

The idea came about after Lewis and a 

friend from Avalon regularly travelled over 

to Newtown on a Tuesday night in a bid to 

get their own comedy careers started at an 

open mic night. 

“The crowd weren’t really a great comedy 

crowd, and we just thought we could 

do it a lot better. There seemed a gap in 

the market on the Northern Beaches and 

we wanted to see if they’d be into comedy 

nights. 

“And we wanted to give local comedians 

a place to perform on the Beaches. And the 

customers have loved it.” 

Lewis arrived on the Beaches eight years 

ago. Living in London, but with an Australian 

father, he bought tickets to Sydney one 

snowy day at work and hasn’t looked back. 

Originally working in hospitality, he did a 

Pilgrimage to the Edinburgh and Montreal 

Comedy Festivals which gave him the 

inspiration to move into comedy. 

“I do a five-minute intro as the MC 

and then we have five other comedians,” 

explains Lewis. “We have a headline act 

for 30 minutes, two comedians who are on 

the verge of making it, and two up-andcoming 

local acts. 

“We had 120 people at Freshie Brewery 

and that was too many people, so I’ve 

capped that at 90. We had 80 at The Newport 

and that felt good and intimate for 

comedy. I aim for at least 60 people at any 

night we hold.” 

Lewis’ joint focus is on having fun and 

supporting local artists, providing a venue 

for them to perform on the Northern 

Beaches. And bringing crowds on quiet 

week nights means it a win-win for Lewis 

and the various Northern Beaches venues 

involved. 

More nights and venues are planned, but 

perhaps not yet showing some of Lewis’ 

heroes. 

“Watching Mike Myers and Jim Carrey in 

their early films was what first made me 

fall in love with comedy. In terms of standup 

I don’t think there’s anyone better than 

Dave Schapelle. 

“And I like the English comedian Mickey 

Flanagan… I saw him for 10 pounds years 

ago at a North London comedy club. I also 

saw Ricky Gervais booed off stage at the 

same club, after he did a 20-minute routine 

about Princess Diana.” 

Lewis himself does observational comedy 

and one-liners. He would eventually 

like to move into the storytelling arena of 

comedy, which takes a lot of experience. 

Alongside working part-time and running 

Canned Laughter, he has one other 

important job. 

“I’m following the Seinfeld technique 

of making sure I write one joke a day,” he 

said. 

Without giving anything away, the gag 

Lewis wrote on the day of our interview 

was a cracker. Find out what those jokes 

are at 4 Pines Newport (October 4) or the 

Avalon Bowlo (October 19). – Rob Pegley 

*Tickets and info cannedlaughter.com.au 



Shared Spaces trial extended 

SCRUTINY: The Avalon 

trial will remain open 

for submissions 

through Summer. 

Northern Beaches Council staff have 

announced the six-months trial of the 

Avalon Streets as Shared Spaces project will be 

extended until 28 February 2024. 

The move follows last month’s walk-through 

of the Avalon Beach Village by Mayor Sue 

Heins, Pittwater Ward Councillors and local 

Business Chamber representatives. 

A staff briefing to Mayor Heins and councillors, 

seen by Pittwater Life, said the extension 

would allow for a thorough evaluation of the 

project. 

“As the infrastructure was only partially installed 

for the summer 2022/2023 period, this 

will allow the trial to continue… through the 

upcoming Summer,” the briefing note said. 

Council’s survey, on its Your Say page, was 

due to conclude on 1 October but will now 

remain open until 28 February 2024. 

On September 21, Council staff attended 

the shared pedestrian zone near the Avalon 

Recreation Centre between 10am and 12pm to 

answer questions. 

On the same day, residents were also afforded 

the opportunity to book a one-on-one 

phone call with a project team member to 

discuss the trial. 

Pittwater Ward Councillor Michael Gencher 

said he had approached staff to consider an 

extension of the deadline for submissions. 

“There has been much argument, opinion, 

anxiety and commentary from the community 

on this project… my feeling is that it would 

be best to extend the closing date for submissions, 

and for the trial to be extended, to allow 

us to get through the busiest time of the year 

and have a full picture of both the benefit 

and the disadvantage – especially through the 

holiday season,” he said. 

“This project launched at the worst possible 

time for a disruption, and not just the timing, 

but the extremely poor project delivery and 

communication with the community. 

“It is so important for us to get this right, for 

both the community and Council. It’s not just 

the area of the Shared Space under trial, which 

seems to have been designed in isolation. 

“We need to also consider and offer our 

opinions, thoughts and concerns regarding 

the wider impacts of the project, including 

traffic flow through the village, pedestrian 

safety, bicycle use through the shared space, 

bus routes, parking and the impact on local 

businesses.” 

Cr Gencher said he looked forward to hearing 

further from the greater community about 

the trial through the submissions. 

“Whatever the community decides to do 

with the Shared Space – to keep it, to make 

changes, to get rid of it – the Council will have 

to ensure that it is done correctly and responsibly 

and in keeping with the wishes and 

expectations of the community.” 

It is expected the community engagement 

and survey results will be reported to Council 

in early 2024. 


*What do you think about the extension? Tell 

us at readers@pittwaterlife.com.au 

TARGET: Police caution a cyclist. 

Cyclists 

nabbed in 

Avalon blitz 

Local police have been 

conducting sweeps of 

Northern Beaches hubs 

Manly and Avalon to crack 

down on E-Bike and pedal 

cycling offences. 

Officers from Northern 

Beaches Police Area Command 

targeted Avalon in late 

August, pulling over cyclists 

and E-Bike riders committing 

offences ranging from 

riding on footpaths, riding 

across pedestrian crossings 

and riding without helmets. 

Superintendent Pat Sharkey 

told Pittwater Life: “Officers 

including Traffic and 

Highway Patrol Command 

regularly conduct operations 

aimed to increase public 

safety and reduce road and 

transport-related trauma. 

“Recently, police conducted 

operations in Avalon, 

where a range of traffic offences 

were detected. Similar 

operations have been 

conducted in other parts 

of the Northern Beaches 

in order to promote public 

safety.” 

He added these operations 

also responded to community 

concerns that were raised 

with police. 

– NW 

News 



News 

Sandrine offering a 

French connection 

Some might find it hard to pronounce Sandrine Iratchet 

Bonython’s name even with a glass of Bordeaux in hand. 

But Sandrine – with a culinary contribution from her 

sister Isabelle – has come up with a tres-magnifique concept to 

assist both Francophiles 

and those unfamiliar 

with the French language, 

including those with travel 

on their minds, to become 

more comfortable with all 

things Gallic. 

Born in Avalon, it’s an 

idea that should go global. 

From Tuesday 17 

October at 5.30pm, 

Sandrine will host four 

two-hours-30-minutes 

French lessons at 

Bookoccino (now the 

village’s only book shop). 

Limited to a group of 

16, each session isn’t 

like the lesson you may 

have learned at school. 

And it isn’t only for 

beginners, Sandrine 

explains, but for 

Francophiles generally 

who want to improve 

their vocabulary or 

pronunciation. 

“I make learning 

French interesting and 

fun,” Sandrine says 

from her “atelier” in 

Avalon where she also 

gives private lessons via 

her business, Rendezvous 

en Français. 

“I let people connect with the country so they can learn 

French as it should be learned with confidence and at least go 

into a boulangerie and order a baguette,” she explains. 

Sandrine’s concept, conceived in COVID, is brilliantly simple. 

The first half consists of Sandrine giving conversational French 

lessons. 

Then there is an “intermission” during which sister Isabelle 

serves her “amuse-bouche” – small canapé-type morsels 

pertaining to the region of France that will be discussed (with 

film footage) after the break. 

“I call it travelling to France without leaving the Northern 

Beaches,” Sandrine says. “We visit a different region every 

Tuesday.” 

In this season – the third held at Bookoccino since 2021 when 

she launched the event – the first meeting will feature Nouvelle- 

Aquitaine, the giant south-west corner of France around 

Bordeaux where the sisters grew up. 

“Then we go to Brittany and the Occitanie before finishing in 

Paris,” she says. 

“I find people learning a new language find it easier if 

they are comfortable. French is not too difficult compared to 

learning English. It is much more logical. Sixty per cent of the 

two languages are shared anyway,” she says. 

The four-week course costs $495 including wine and amusebouche. 

– Steve Meacham 

*More info and bookings at Sandrine.com.au 

PARIS MATCH: Sandrine with husband Tim. 



News 

Bayview boost for female golfers 

Golfers will experience 

fewer closures, restrictions 

and poor playing 

conditions at Bayview Golf 

Club after the completion of 

works from a grant allocated 

by the former NSW Liberal 

Government. 

With a focus on securing 

more involvement by women 

and girls, Bayview GC received 

$482,490 to improve and construct 

course drainage across 

its layout. 

The course has historically 

been prone to flooding, with 

Cahill Creek running through 

it and joining Pittwater. 

The Club said the construction 

of irrigation and subsurface 

drainage would reduce 

the risk of fairways flooding 

and limit impacts of climate 

change. 

“If the course does not flood 

it can stay open more days, increasing 

participation particularly 

for our female players who 

have found muddy fairways 

unpalatable,” the project brief 

states. 

“Improved playing conditions 

will attract golfers to 

exercise, which improves social 

connection, health including 

mental health, educational and 

economic benefits for the community. 

“Plus the betterment will improve 

sustainability following 

natural disaster.” 

Bayview GC appointed local 

contractor Neverstop to undertake 

works, in conjunction with 

the Club’s Greens staff led by 

James Thomas. 

In total, 14 holes of irrigation 

have been modernised and 

connected to the central control 

system. Over 90 irrigation 

zones were installed, comprising 

more than 400 sprinklers 

to ensure edge-to-edge coverage 

tee through greens. 

Club President Irene Newport 

thanked local MP Rory Amon 

for the former Government’s 

grant at the official opening 

ceremony in September. 

“Sport breaks the barriers 

that divide us, promoting 

mental and physical health 

OPENING: Bayview GC President 

Irene Newport and MP Rory Amon. 

and inclusion, no matter what 

ability, race, religion, culture or 

age,” said Ms Newport. 

“Some 75 years on from the 

founder’s sheep farm, we are 

now more resilient to natural 

events. My wish is for Bayview 

to look to the next 75 years and 

beyond, building a stronger, 

happier and safer community.” 

Bayview COO Paul Clarke 

said the Club was a forerunner 

in promoting women’s golf. 

“The Club’s women members 

have the same rights as their 

male counterparts and we are 

looking to further enhance the 

golfing experience through the 

use of gender-neutral tees.” 

Mr Amon said recent statistics 

showed women’s membership 

of golf clubs had increased 

by 4 per cent, with men’s 

numbers rising 2.5 per cent. 

“Often people will look at 

golf courses and say, ‘we can 

turn that to football fields’… 

but they don’t appreciate that 

golf is a sport which can be 

played by people at all ages,” 

he said. 

“If you don’t invest in the 

facilities for people to engage in 

golf, then you’re going to have a 

generation of people that, when 

they can’t play contact sports, 

can’t stay active.” 

Bayview’s grant was awarded 

through the Sport Infrastructure 

Recovery Fund 2022-23. 




It’s time to split! 

Permaculture Northern Beaches (PNB) is on the lookout 

for volunteers to help observe or split native bee hives 

in October and November. 

PNB runs a successful native bee program where it 

provides schools, community gardens and kindergartens 

with hives every season. 

In late Spring, the 

group split these native 

bee hives at the gardens/ 

homes of long-term PNB 

supporters and community 

gardens. 

Hive splits are from 

Mosman to Balgowlah to 

Mona Vale. 

PNB will also run a Bee 

Diversity Highway talk at 

the Narrabeen Tramshed 

on Thursday 26 October. HELP: Split hives. 

Native bees are a critical 

part of our biodiversity as pollinators of native fauna 

and foods and their numbers are impacted due to the 

use of insecticides and pesticides in public spaces and in 

gardens. This event will outline an initiative to help our 

bees thrive. 

Entry is by donation ($5 is recommended); all are welcome. 

Organic teas and coffees are available, bring a plate 

to share food or swap plants, books, CDs, and items for 

your home or garden. 

– Lisa Offord 

*More info permaculturenorthernbeaches.org.au 

News 



The Way We Were 

Every month we pore over three decades of Pittwater Life, providing a snapshot 

of the area’s recent history – and confirming that quite often the more things change, 

the more they stay the same! Compiled by Lisa Offord 

25 Years Ago… 

The Way We Were 

The major Election ’98 issues were 

aired – with local candidates saying they 

would work for improved health care 

and education, a better deal for older 

Australians, well-managed nursing homes, 

more childcare places, adequate public 

transport, safe and efficient main roads, 

assistance for small businesses owners 

and protection of our natural environment. 

Independent Bob Ellis won top spot on the 

Mackellar election ballot and the editor 

at the time proclaimed sitting member 

Bronwyn Bishop “… will retain the seat (it is 

the second safest Liberal seat in Australia) 

but could be forced to preferences as a result 

of the intervention of One Nation (John 

Webeck) and the Democrat Vicki Dimond as 

well as the vigorous campaign that Labor’s 

Nick Lorentzen has been putting up, with Tom Keneally 

and Barry Unsworth at his launch. Mrs Bishop had broadcaster 

Alan Jones to open her campaign.” In other news “The ‘Golden 

Oldies’ of board surfing and their sixties longboards” were 

preparing to descend on Palm Beach for the third annual 

Old Mal Rally; Narrabeen was about to lose its second major 

bank with the closure of the National Australia Bank, “earlier 

this year the Narrabeen Branch of the ANZ Bank closed leaving 


only two majors, The Commonwealth and 

Westpac in the area”; The Red Cross Shop 

in Newport was appealing for volunteers; 

and three local butchers and Frank Cipri’s 

fruit and vegetables shop were “feeling 

the threat of the large companies” with 

Franklins opening a Big Fresh selling 

pre-packaged meats and a wider range of 

fruit and vegetables. Frank summed up 

the feelings of all four business owners: 

“We will continue to offer the freshest quality 

foods, competitive prices and personalised 

service – and that’s something they cannot 

do.” There was a special offer for music 

lovers with the “four record shops” in 

Pittwater offering readers a free compact 

disc when they bought any two $9.95 

CDs; and the video shop in Avalon was 

“now selling N64 and PlayStations and accessories at better 

than KMART prices”. Pittwater’s first Artfest for young artists 

was “an extraordinary success, with more than 200 entries”. 

North Av’s Beach Without Sand celebrated its 15th birthday 

with drinks, a BBQ and entertainment; and Local Government 

Minister Ernie Page assured locals “there will be no forced 

amalgamation of Pittwater, Warringah and Manly into a super 

Council”. 


The cover was the winner of Mayor unopposed with four new Volunteer life savers were back 

the children’s Artfest which faces joining the ranks – Crs on the beaches from the long 

attracted more than 450 works. Harvey Rose, Peter Hock, Ian weekend. It was a big month 

The winning entry was created by White and Jacqueline Townsend. for creative types, with the 

a group of 20 kids who each drew Meanwhile, a lack of funding Pittwater Artists Trail and the 

their favourite sportsperson. In had delayed plans for a new 

Newport Sculpture Trail both 

the Pittwater Council Election, playground at Governor Phillip 

scheduled; the preferred site 

David James was re-elected Park at Palm Beach; however 

for the long-awaited local art 

plans were proceeding at the 

playgrounds affected by “the 

space north of Mona Vale was 

salmonella virus in the sand” revealed; and local producer 

at Winnererremy Bay, Avalon Allanah Zitserman released her 

Beach and Hitchcock Park where new movie Ladies In Black. The State Government 

fresh sand and bark was being announced up to $2.45million would go towards an 

put down to “help keep the virus expanded dredging program for the troublesome Ettalong 

under control”. Plans to build Channel to keep it navigable. NSW Planning Minister 

six units for over 55-year-olds Anthony Roberts called for a stop to “overdevelopment 

on Ocean Road Palm Beach whingeing”. Meanwhile, the first meeting of the Avalon 

were rejected by the Land and Community reference group to discuss the Avalon Place 

Environment Court upholding 

Plan was about to be held. Council was investigating 

strong objections from Council 

closing the Avalon Customer Service office; our Life 

and residents; The Royal Motor 

Stories featured founder of 1 Million Women Natalie 

Yacht Club held the 8th Timber 

Boat Festival; and the mag 

Isaacs; Passionate local youth advocate Justene Gordon 

profiled 14-year-old dancer was bestowed with the 2018 Pittwater Community Service 

Nathan Brook of Clareville Award; we ran a story about the local events scheduled 

who was heading off to the during Mental Health month; and The Mona Vale Hospital 

Australian Ballet School in Urgent Care Centre and The Northern Beaches Hospital 

Melbourne. 

opened on October 30. 



News 

SEEN… 

A succession of low 20-degree days with little wind presented 

firefighters with the perfect conditions to undertake strategic 

hazard-reduction burns across Sydney in early September – 

with Mona Vale headland the focus. FRNSW deployed firefighters 

from Mona Vale, Mount Druitt, Silverwater, Campsie, 

Fairfield and Lidcombe around the half hectare coastal site in 

a four-hour burn. Teams set up containment lines, bordered 

by walking tracks and the cliff face to the beach, keeping 

flame heights to three or four metres to ensure safe management 

of the fuel load which was determined to be “extremely 

high”. While the conditions were ideal for firefighters, the 

ensuing days of smoke haze presented poor air quality for 

Sydney – with the city rated the fourth worst in the world for a 

couple of days. 

HEARD… 

Northern Beaches Council has defended its grant-funded 

public art murals at Mona Vale, including the Mona Vale 

Memorial Hall, in the wake of complaints from some residents 

and criticism from community group ‘Friends of Mona 

Vale’. Mayor Sue Heins told Pittwater Life that Council was 

rolling out murals in Mona Vale (plus Curl Curl and Manly) 

to kerb a spate of graffiti vandalism – with Mona Vale Village 

Park and surrounds a key target. “The graffiti management 

program is a research-based approach to reducing vandalism 

and improving our public spaces,” she said. “Artists are 

transforming laneways, streets and buildings with stunning 

new artworks, and mentoring young people from across the 

Northern Beaches as part of this program.” Mona Vale was the 

major hotspot requiring clean-up – for the period 1 January 

2022 to 5 September 2023, Mona Vale was the third highest 

suburb location across the Northern Beaches with graffiti 

removal requiring 696 hours and 4383 square metres. Mayor 

Heins added the graffiti management program was separate 

to the Mona Vale Place Plan. “This short-term, grant-funded 

project does not prevent any long-term actions from the Place 

Plan being implemented,” she said… Meanwhile a reader from 

north of the Bilgola Bends, who wished to remain anonymous, 

sent us the image below which highlights the danger faced by 

commuters getting off buses at the bus stop opposite Careel 

Bay shops, on the western side of Barrenjoey Rd. “There is a 

large, uncovered ditch/drain on the side of the road… if you 

didn’t know it was there you could easily fall into it when 

getting off via the back doors. I have written to Council about 

this since January… they said they were making a grate to 

put over it but nothing has been done. It’s mind boggling!” We 

have passed on the concern to local Councillors. 

ABSURD… 

Sniffing inaction by 

the (relatively) new 

Minns State Government 

– who prior to 

its election in March 

promised it would act 

to scrap to controversial 

PEP-11 offshore 

gas and oil exploration 

lease – the holders 

of the licence Advent 

Energy have been 

talking up progressing 

steps to drill for 

gas. Pittwater MP Rory 

Amon says he is tired 

of state politicians laying 

the blame for the 

ongoing saga on the 

former Liberal State 

Government. “Despite 

claiming to be against 

offshore gas and oil 

exploration, the NSW 

Labor Government, 

Independents and the Greens chose to delay a ban proposed 

by my Private Members Bill and sent it to a committee in June. 

Absurdly, the committee is inquiring as to the environmental 

impacts of PEP-11.” Mr Amon said the committee was not due 

to report their findings until November 2023, meaning there 

was unlikely to be any action until 2024. “In June, I said that 

referring the Bill to a committee might mean that steps to 

mine offshore gas and oil could be taken in the meantime. As 

sure as day follows night, this month market announcements 

were made by the owners of the PEP-11 license that they are 

progressing steps to mine offshore gas. NSW Labor may protest 

and circulate petitions against PEP-11, but the reality is 

they are sitting on their hands doing nothing.” 



Pittwater News 

Bowlo offers ‘Daylight Savings’ 

Daylight Saving returns on October 1 – that’s also when 

Newport Bowling Club starts offering its ‘Daylight Savings’ 

with a special social membership offer: Each new member will 

enjoy a 15-month membership for the usual $12-month membership 

fee of $10. 

Socialise in the Clubhouse’s unpretentious lounge bar, enjoy 

a catch-up with friends for a beverage or two (they have more 

than 60 beers to choose from) on the large, covered veranda, 

a game of barefoot bowls – plus also from October, your 

favourite Lucky & Pep’s pizza, delivered directly to your table 

overlooking the bowling greens. 

*More info call 9999 1661, email newportbowling@bigpond. 

com, or just drop by and introduce yourself! 

News 

New Music Society 

hitting the high notes 

Those with a love and appreciation 

of classical music 

will be able to share their 

interest with similar-minded 

locals following the formation 

of a new dedicated local 

group – the Northern Beaches 

Classical Music Society – that 

will meet regularly to appraise 

and discuss famous and not so 

famous works. Leading the association 

is Mona Vale GP and 

Newport resident Dr Ivor Zetler, 

who established the Sydney 

Classical Music Society around 

20 years ago. “We presented 

lectures by famous musicians 

such as conductors Christopher 

Hogwood (our patron), Simone 

Young, Richard Bonynge 

(who lived at Whale Beach at 

the time) and Richard Hickox,” 

said Ivor. “The composer Peter 

Sculthorpe also gave a series 

of talks on composing. There 

were multiple other events and 

concerts including a wonderful 

series of organ recital in local 

schools and churches.” More 

info email Ivor at izetler@ 

ozemail.com.au 

Boost your mind – 

learn to play bridge 

Are you thinking about 

increasing your social connections 

or boosting your mental 

stimulation? Consider learning 

bridge – it offers an engaging 

social game that’s supported by 

Alzheimer’s Australia. Players 

not only meet new people but 

also make life-long friends. 

Peninsula Bridge Club is a notfor-profit 

organisation in Warriewood. 

Accredited teachers 

host daytime and evening beginner 

classes throughout the 

year. Their groups are small, 

and no prior card knowledge 

is necessary. You don’t even 

need to bring a partner. Age is 

no barrier. Cost is $100 which 

Continued on page 38 

Roll up for circus fun 

Stardust Circus returns to the Northern Beaches in October 

with shows in Manly and Warriewood. 

This family-owned and operated Circus opened in 1993, 

although it has carnival links back to 1896! 

The performing troupe consists of 38 family members – 

ranging from 6-year-olds to 54-year-olds, performing aerial, 

acrobatic and comedy acts, a ‘wheel of death’, quick change, 

dancing and magic illusions. 

The ‘fun of the fair’ opens one hour before each show, with 

Dodgem cars, rides, jumping castle and show bags. 

Performers train several times a week and the Circus has two 

full-time school teachers for the group’s 10 school-aged kids. 

*Dates are 13-29 October (Hinkler Park, Manly) and 3-26 

November (Boondah Reserve, Warriewood). Tickets and info 

stardustcircus.com.au 



‘Lollypalooza’ for Halloween 

W 

ith Halloween’s popularity in Australia growing, many 

local families are looking for fun and safe ways to meet 

neighbours, dress up and collect lollies with their kids. 

Narrabeen Baptist Church has recognised this and will host 

‘Lollypalooza’ on Halloween, 31 October, from 4.30-7pm. 

Families can expect stacks of lollies, as well as carnival-type 

games, crafts and face-painting. There will also be a sausage sizzle. 

There’s no need to register for this free community event – 

just show up! 

*Lollypalooza at Narrabeen Baptist Church, 13 Grenfell Ave, 

North Narrabeen. 

News 



News 


Continued from page 36 

includes four lessons plus a 

practice game. Textbook and 

follow-up notes are included. 

More info peninsulabridgeclub. 

org.au 

Meet your local MPs 

Bayview and Church Point residents 

will hold a community 

gathering near the Flying Fox 

play area at Winnererremy Bay 

Park on Sunday 15 October. The 

informal ‘meet your neighbour’ 

and ‘meet your elected 

representatives’ event will run 

from 12 noon through 2.30pm. 

In attendance will be Mackellar 

Federal MP Dr Sophie Scamps, 

NSW State Pittwater MP Rory 

Amon, Northern Beaches Mayor 

Sue Heins and Pittwater Ward 

Councillors Michael Gencher 

and Miranda Korzy. More info 

Peter Blanchard (0417 231 128). 

Learn new knitting 

and crochet skills 

Pittwater Group of Knitters’ 

Guild NSW are holding a knitting 

and crochet gathering 

at Narrabeen Surf Club on 4 

November (1.30-3.30pm). Enjoy 

learning new skills or reviving 

old ones with workshops on 

crochet and knitting. Discover 

how knitting and crochet can 

be a form of relaxation and 

mindfulness. Tea, coffee, and 

cakes will be available ($2 

donation), plus a raffle with 

great prizes. All ages welcome; 

bookings email pittwater@ 

knittersguildnsw.org.au 

Prepare for bushfires 

Mackellar MP Dr Sophie 

Scamps will host a free ‘Fire in 

the Forest’ community panel 

event at Glen Street Theatre on 

Tuesday 10 October to educate 

locals about how to prepare for 

the upcoming bushfire season. 

The expo will feature information 

stalls from Fire and Rescue 

NSW; The Red Cross; The 

Rural Fire Service; NSW SES; 

and Sydney Wildlife Rescue. Dr 

Sophie Scamps will facilitate 

a conversation between Greg 

Mullins (former Commissioner 

of Fire and Rescue NSW and 

internationally renowned fire 

and rescue expert); Dr Simon 

Bradshaw (author and Research 

Director at the Climate Council); 

and Tim Buckley (Climate and 

Energy analyst, member of the 

Climate Energy Alliance and 

former Australasian Director 

of the Institute for Energy Economics 

and Financial Analysis. 

Doors will open at 6pm, with 

the panel event taking place at 

7pm. Dr Scamps said: “We are 

fortunate to be surrounded by 

beautiful National Parks and 

bushland, but this beauty also 



Nada Herman open studios 

Local artist Nada Herman will hold open studios over three 

weekends in October. 

View her stunning works at the historic property ‘Hy-brasil’ 

on October 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22 (plenty of parking at the top of 

the driveway). 

Nada specialises in large, bold, colourful oil paintings, using 

loads of paint in a dynamic, textured style, depicting the local 

area with its beautiful waterways and oceans. 

(Nada’s work features on the cover of this month’s issue of 

Pittwater Life.) 

*More info nada-art.com 

poses a significant fire risk. 

Meteorologists are predicting 

a hot and dry summer ahead 

while the Rural Fire Service is 

warning NSW could be in for a 

dangerous fire season – including 

on the Northern Beaches. 

While our amazing local, 

volunteer-led rural fire services 

have been doing everything 

possible to prepare for the fire 

season, their attempts to carry 

out hazard reduction burns 

have been hampered by wet 

weather. So as a community 

we must also do our bit to 

help prepare for the upcoming 

bushfire season.” Registrations 

essential – head to sophiescamps.com.au/events 

Housing, energy 

crisis seminar 

Sydney Alliance is hosting a 

Housing and Energy workshop 

on 4 October from 7-9pm at 

Our Lady of Dolours Catholic 

Church Chatswood (94 Archer 

Street Chatswood). The workshop 

will cover concrete goals 

and solutions to understand 

everyday issues related to 

housing and energy costs. The 

workshop seeks to build solutions 

locals can take to local, 

State and Federal parliamentarians 

for response. “The cost 

of living, housing affordability 

and the energy crisis affects 

everyone. We are all impacted 

when essential workers – bus 

drivers, medical staff, baristas 

and teachers – can’t afford to 

live locally,” the organisers 

said. Info and registrations 

sydneyalliance.org.au 


News 




News 

Find your groove at Narrabeen 

Get ready to sing your heads off and dance up a storm when 

the Northern Beaches Music Festival returns to Narrabeen 

on the weekend of 4-5 November. 

Enjoy a variety of music genres across five stages at the 

Tramshed and adjoining Berry Reserve. 

Blending mellow with the upbeat, among the dozens of acts 

will be cool bands including Cameron Daddo & the Paisley 

Prophets; Daddy Long Legs & The Swamp Donkeys; The Mezcaltones; 

Dead Mellow; Luke Escombe; The Fallen Robins; Mic 

Conway & Robbie Long; Kevin Bennett (The Flood); Jaga Band; 

Moussa Diakite and more! 

The Festival is the creation of seven Northern Beaches music 

venues: The Shack, Fairlight Folk, Humph Hall, The Fig, SongsOnStage, 

The Acoustic Picnic and The Music Lounge, together 

with Radio Northern Beaches. 

Executive Producer Paul Robertson said the Festival Village 

will once again feature world cuisine (everything from Nepalese 

curries to Serbian wraps) and great merchandise stalls. 

The Northern Beaches Music Festival is a not-for-profit, 

community-based event operating since 2011. It’s being supported 

by a grant from Northern Beaches Council. 

* More info, tickets and full schedule visit northernbeachesmusicfestival.org 

Edible Garden Trail 

The Sydney Edible Garden Trail 

is back for another exciting 

year, inviting all nature enthusiasts, 

gardening aficionados, 

and food lovers to explore a vibrant 

tapestry of lush gardens 

on 4-5 November. This eagerly 

anticipated non-profit event 

promises a weekend of inspiration, 

education, and community 

building. The Trail showcases 

an array of community, 

school and private gardens 

that seamlessly blend beautiful 

landscapes with practical 

food production. All profits 

support local initiatives aimed 

at improving access to fresh, 

healthy food and promoting 

sustainable urban agriculture. 

Adult tickets are $28 and family 

tickets $59. More info and 

tickets go to sydneyediblegardentrail.com 

Nominate for Council 

Australia Day Awards 

Nominations for Northern 

Beaches Council’s 2024 

Australia Day Awards which 

recognise and celebrate the 

outstanding contributions of 

local residents, community 

groups and events close on 

30 October. Each year Council 

acknowledges special individuals 

and event organisers 

who make a difference in our 

community across several 

award categories. This year 

a new category is included 

– Community Group of the 

Year. Also, for the first time 

ever the Outstanding Achievement 

Award is open to 

non-Australian Citizens. This 

year’s seven award categories 

are Citizen of the Year; Senior 

Citizen of the Year (65 years 

or older); Young Citizen of 

the Year (under 25 years); 

Outstanding Community 

Service; Sportsperson of the 

Year; Community Event of the 

Year; and Community Group 

of the Year. To nominate visit 

Council’s website. 

Katandra Bushland 

Sanctuary by Night 

Pittwater Natural Heritage 

Association is hosting a night 

‘spotlighting adventure’ at Katandra 

Bushland Sanctuary on 

15 October. The 16 mammals 

recorded here include the 

Sugar Glider, Feathertail Glider 

and Eastern Pygmy Possum; 

also, Powerful Owls are known 

to nest here. Moderate fitness 

needed. Find out more about 

Katandra at katandrabushlandsanctuary.com; 

registrations 

and more info email 

pnhainfo@gmail.com 

Zonta Trivia Night 

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches 

is holding a Trivia Night on 

Saturday 4 November to raise 

funds for its International 

Birthing Kits Project. Get down 

to the Mona Vale Memorial 

Hall for a 7pm start. Bring gold 

coins for games, cash for the 



Local Probus News in October 

The next meeting of the Palm Beach and 

Peninsula Probus Club is on Wednesday 

18 October at Club Palm Beach, commencing 

9.30am. After a short formal meeting 

and morning tea, guest speaker, Kez Hasanic 

from the Maritime Museum will talk about the 

sinking of the luxury liner Lusitania in 1915. A 

single torpedo from a U-20 Boat off the coast of 

Ireland sank the giant ship in just 18 minutes, 

drowning almost all passengers and crew 

in what is regarded as one of history’s most 

terrible maritime disasters. Retired men and 

women are welcome to attend as visitors; more 

info 0421 435 792. 

At the next meeting of Pittwater Probus 

Club, well-known local identity Geoff Searl 

will talk about how Avalon Beach grew from 

a remote holiday camping site to a thriving 

beachside suburb. Meeting at Mona Vale Surf 

Club on Tuesday 10 October commences 10am. 

Visitors welcome; more info Terry Larke (0412 

220 820). 

Narrabeen Lakes Probus Club next meets 

on Wednesday 25 October at Narrabeen Baptist 

Church. Doors open at 9.45am for 10am meeting. 

The club has around 80 members (visitors 

welcome, no waiting list). The October speaker 

will be Matt Murphy, whose subject will be 

‘Rum: a distilled history of NSW, from colonial 

times to the 20th century’. More info call or text 

0424 464 047. 

The next meeting of the Combined Probus 

Club of Mona Vale is on Tuesday, 17 October, 

at Pittwater RSL Club (commences 10am). The 

October guest speaker is wildlife photographer 

Rita Shaw, who is passionate about nature 

and all things living and loves being able to 

raffle and your own nibbles, 

drinks and glasses. Book your 

table of eight or organisers will 

place you; bookings zontanb@ 

gmail.com or call Annette on 

0417 236 982. Cost $30, payable 

on the door. 

Pittwater High ’81-’83 

Pittwater High classes of 1981 

to 1983 are calling for classmates 

to attend their 40-year 

reunion. The event is on 22 

photograph extraordinary moments in an 

animal’s day-to-day life. After many years of 

enjoying photography and promoting rhino 

conservation as hobbies, Rita went to Africa 

for the first time in 2008. She regularly travels 

to Africa and other countries, where she specialises 

in wildlife photography. “Game drives 

in Africa, India and other countries provide an 

opportunity to highlight the otherwise secret 

lives of these amazing creatures,” she says. 

Rita’s book ‘A Rhino Lady in Africa’ is a précis 

of her first 12 trips to Africa between 2008 

and 2014. Visitors welcome to attend; more 

info call Robert (0407 202 266). 

The next meeting of the Bilgola Plateau 

Probus Club at Newport Bowling Club on 

Friday 6 October marks the Club’s one-year 

anniversary – in that time it has grown from 

eight members to around 100! The October 

guest speaker Hans Kunnen, who was working 

in New York on 11 September 2000 when 

he found himself in the middle of this tragic, 

world-altering event. Hans will speak about 

his experience and his interactions with 

people he saw and leaned upon as they tried 

to make their way out of the chaos. Visitors 

welcome; doors open from 9.30am. More info 

call Shelley (0415 538 864). 

The speaker at the next Newport Probus 

Club meeting will be Ian ‘Herbie’ Hemphill, 

Managing Director of Herbie’s Spices and the 

author of The Herbs and Spices Bible. He will 

speak about ‘Spices, the plants that changed 

the World’. The meeting will be held at Newport 

Bowling Club on Thursday 5 October, 

commencing 10am. Visitors welcome; more 

info Di Burrell (0410 465 303). 

November at Mona Vale Bowling 

Club. “This reunion is a 

chance to reconnect, celebrate 

our achievements and create 

lasting bonds,” said organiser 

Annette Burgoyne (nee Gale). 

Event starts 6pm. Tickets $50 

via trybooking.com/CKPOS 

Vet 

on call 

with Dr Brown 

Spring is truly on its way, and 

it is an exciting time of year 

for many of us, including our 

pets. It is a great time for lots of 

outdoor activities and exercise 

is hugely beneficial for both 

cats and dogs. If your cat is exclusively 

indoors it is important 

that they have regular play time 

or a safe outdoor space where 

you can supervise them both 

for mental and physical health. 

There are also some hidden 

hazards to be aware of. Long 

walks with your dog are to be 

enjoyed but always ensure you 

keep a close eye on them as 

several spring flowers, bulbs 

and mushrooms can be toxic. 

Cats can also become a little 

too curious so be sure to know 

which plants in your garden 

are toxic to them. Fertilisers 

are also on the increase and 

can pose serious danger. Any 

concerns of possible ingestion 

contact your vet immediately. 

Many insects and parasites 

start to increase in the warmer 

months. Spring is the breeding 

season for ticks including the 

paralysis tick. Ensure your pet is 

up to date with their tick prevention 

and check them frequently 

every day. Heartworm can 

cause serious health problems 

and the best way to avoid this is 

prevention. If you are unsure of 

the best prevention for your pet 

and how frequently this should 

be given, speak to your vet for 

advice. Another insect to be 

aware of for both cats and dogs 

are bees. They can seem a fun, 

enticing thing to chase and bite; 

however, stings can be as simple 

as a small swelling or cause 

a serious allergic reaction. 

Snakes are waking up also 

and for curious dogs or cats attempting 

a little toe tap, it could 

result in a rather painful and 

potentially fatal snake bite. 

Finally, a little harder to avoid, 

are allergies. Grass and pollen 

are the big ones, and they can 

often cause skin irritation and 

it isn’t always easy to know the 

direct cause. 

Although allergies are mostly 

unavoidable, they can be managed 

with the help of your vet. 

For more info call the team at 

Avalon (9918 0833) or Newport 

(9997 4609). 

News 



Proud heritage 

Life Stories 

Newport resident Neil Evers explains the 

learning curve he and his family have 

been on since discovering their Aboriginal 

ancestry almost 20 years ago. 

Story by Rosamund Burton 

Eighteen years ago, Neil who worked in the lime trade, helped. They said, you’ve got butcher’s shop in Mona Vale, 

Evers’ cousin Laurie Sarah Wallace had 10 children, to speak from the heart. Learn so I left school on Friday and 

Bimson visited Neil at seven of whom survived. Their as much as you can and then started there on Monday. I 

his home in Newport. He told 

Neil that his brother and he 

had been approached by a 

man living at the RSL War 

Veterans Retirement Village in 

Narrabeen called Bob Waterer, 

who claimed to be a relation. 

Bob Waterer said he had found 

a leather pouch while clearing 

out his sister’s house, which 

contained the birth, death and 

marriage certificates of his 

parents and other ancestors. 

Bob Waterer said that as a 

boy he had been told that he 

had Aboriginal and German 

blood; he said the found 

records confirmed that his, 

Laurie’s and Neil’s ancestor 

Sarah (Biddy) Lewis – also 

known as Sarah Wallace – was 

an Aboriginal woman, and, 

says Neil, part of the Guringai 

clan led by Bungaree (who 

circumnavigated Australia 

with Matthew Flinders from 

1801-03). 

With John Lewis Ferdinand, 

an ex-convict born in Germany, 

relationship lasted 40 years. 

They lived on the Hawkesbury 

at Marramarra Creek and 

according to a settler living 

nearby, John Lewis used to say 

to her: “Sit in the bow of the 

boat, Biddy, so I can look at 

your beautiful face.” 

Neil discovered this family 

heritage at the age of 63 and 

says it has been a big learning 

curve. 

“All of a sudden you’re 

Aboriginal. People ask what 

did Aboriginal people do about 

such and such. I’ve got no 

idea. I’m learning too,” he says. 

“I’ve tried to read up and get a 

knowledge of as much as I can. 

“One thing my cousin Laurie 

and I found out very quickly 

was if you are connected to 

the Land then you are asked 

to give a Welcome to Country. 

Suddenly, we’re asked to give 

welcomes. We had to learn 

what to say and how to say it. 

“Fortunately we knew Elders 

on the Central Coast and they 

welcome people to the country 

of your ancestors like you 

would welcome someone to 

your own home.” 

Neil was born at Collaroy 

in 1942, and according to his 

mother was “not much heavier 

than a pound of butter”. He 

grew up with his two sisters 

in Mona Vale, and their family 

home was where Aldi stands 

today. His grandparents also 

lived in Mona Vale and their 

property ran from Pittwater 

Road right through to Darley 

Street. He describes his 

grandfather Thomas Bimson 

as “… very tall, very English 

and bald as a badger. And 

grandma was Aboriginal. We 

just thought she had a good 

suntan.” She was Emily Lewis, 

the granddaughter of Sarah 

Lewis. 

Neil attended Mona Vale 

School, then Balgowlah Boys 

High School. 

“I left school aged 15 or 16. 

Mum found me work in the 

worked there for eight and a 

half years.” 

By the time he was 18 he had 

a son, and by 21 was married 

with a second son, living in 

Narrabeen and working three 

jobs. In addition to working as 

a butcher he mowed lawns at 

the weekends and worked at 

Mona Vale Bowling Club. 

Neil had two more sons with 

his second wife, and now has 

eight grandchildren and two 

great grandchildren. He says 

they all know their Aboriginal 

heritage and have embraced it. 

Sue and Neil have been 

married for 42 years, and have 

lived at Newport for 40 years. 

She has a son, but they have no 

children together. 

Neil drove a front-end loader, 

worked for an office stationery 

company, sold feather flowers, 

before in the mid-1970s a 

friend of his who ran a large 

cleaning company offered him 

a contract to clean six blocks 

of units – four on the Northern 



Beaches and two in Ryde. 

He started his own cleaning 

business and for two years he 

cleaned the apartments on his 

own, before he was offered 

additional cleaning work by 

a Manly real estate company. 

His small business took off. 

Sue and he ran it together from 

their home and at one stage 

employed 16 people full-time. 

By the early 1990s he held a 

diploma in remedial massage 

and started a second business, 

Peninsula Massage, which he 

still operates today. 

About 16 years ago Bob 

Waterer invited Neil to a 

committee meeting of the 

Aboriginal Support Group – 

Manly Warringah Pittwater. 

That evening Neil was asked if 

he would edit the association’s 

newsletter. He agreed to have 

a go and has been the editor 

of the quarterly newsletter, 

Elimatta, ever since. 

Soon after, the person 

heading the group also 

handed over the running 

of it to him. The Aboriginal 

Support Group was founded 

in 1979, initially focusing on 

a proposal by the Aboriginal 

Treaty Committee to develop 

formal treaty negotiations 

between the Commonwealth 

Government and Indigenous 

Australians. Within a couple of 

years its focus had expanded 

to looking at broader social, 

economic and cultural issues. 

The group gives support to 

Indigenous Australians and 

through its information nights, 

held every two months, helps 

the wider community to gain 

an understanding of issues 

Indigenous people are facing. 

Neil was recently nominated 

for the Northern Beaches 

Senior Volunteer of the Year 

award for his years of work. 

The group’s meeting at the 

Mona Vale Memorial Hall on 28 

August attracted 200 people 

to hear Tim Rowse, Emeritus 

Professor in the Institute for 

Culture and Society at Western 

Sydney University, author, 

journalist and filmmaker Dr 

Jeff McMullen AM, and Liberal 

MP for Berowra Julian Leeser, 

talk about why they believe it 

is imperative to vote Yes in the 

upcoming referendum. 

In April, Leeser resigned 

from his role as Shadow 

Attorney-General and Shadow 

Minister for Indigenous 

Australians, because having 

worked for so long to improve 

outcomes for First Nations 

People, he could not support 

the Liberals’ decision to oppose 

an Indigenous voice in the 

constitution. 

Bringing together these 

three men, who knew each 

other’s work supporting 

disadvantaged Indigenous 

Australians, but had never 

met, to speak to this full hall 

of people was for Neil the 

culmination of his many years 

work in this area. 

“How did I get here? I 

thought. I’m the guy whose 

parents were told that they 

may as well get him out of 

school because he wasn’t 

going to do any good. So 

what happened? I have found 

something that really touches 

my heart and I want to help 

people learn more about it.” 

The Aboriginal Support 

Group also raises money 

through its Supporters Annual 

Donation fee and donations. 

Neil says there are around 

1700 Indigenous Australians 

living on the Northern Beaches. 

The group has supported 

several local Aboriginal 

families experiencing 

financial hardship. Funds 

have supported the school at 

Toomelah on the Queensland/ 

NSW border, and to help the 

Aboriginal Land Council set 

up a men’s group in Western 

NSW to address drugs, alcohol, 

mental health and domestic 

violence. During the drought 


PHOTO: Rosamund Burton 


CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE: Neil at home at Newport; helping Dad mow the 

lawn at Collaroy in 1944; with his mother, father and oldest sister; delivering 

a Welcome to Country on the Beaches; the Evers siblings at the Brookvale 

Show in 1954; co-hosting a function at Bilgola Plateau Public School with 

Cathy Freeman; Neil’s Aboriginal heritage lies in the Guringai clan, who was 

led by pivotal early 1800s figure Bungaree; getting to grips with the wildlife 

on a Scout Jamberoo in Queensland in 1957; with Mum Dot. 




Continued from page 45 

money was spent on delivering 

drinking water to remote 

communities. 

For the past 15 years Neil has 

also been giving talks about 

the flamboyant Bungaree, and 

Bungaree’s son Bowen, who 

was a tracker in the Pittwater 

area and the first Aboriginal 

to be given a rifle for his own 

protection. When children at 

Newport Primary School heard 

about Bowen, Neil says, they 

wanted to make him a local 

hero. Bowen settled with his 

wife and children at the base 

of Barrenjoey Headland and 

used to track down illegal 

rum stills up the Hawkesbury 

River. 

“Bowen was walking 

through the bush here in 

Newport and heard people 

calling out ‘murder, murder’. 

He saw the local bushranger 

Casey, who lived at the top of 

Newport Hill attacking two 

fellows with a knife and a 

gun, and the story goes that 

Bowen took aim and Casey 

spoke no more.” Later a group 

of bushrangers were believed 

to have shot Bowen on what is 

now called Bushrangers Hill. 

“But,” says Neil, “there is no 

evidence that he was killed on 

this site, and it’s probable that 

he died in Sydney, where he 

had been taken to.” 

Neil often sits on a bench at 

the northern end of Palm Beach 

below Barrenjoey Headland. 

“It’s so peaceful and quiet and 

I think: ‘I wonder what this was 

like when Bowen lived out here’.” 

Several years ago Neil 

when on Scotland Island he 

was told the island café was 

being named Catherine Café. 

He asked if that was after 

his ancestor, Sarah Wallace’s 

daughter Catherine Benns, 

who as a long-time resident 

was a midwife to many island 

families and known as the 

Queen of Scotland Island. No, 

he was told, it was named after 

Catherine Bouffler whose sonin-law 

owned Scotland Island 

in the 1920s. “Then when the 

café was opening I was asked 

to do the Welcome to Country, 

and the café had been named 

Two Catherines Café.” 

On 23 August, Neil was 

one of the panelists at an 

Indigenous Voice to Parliament 

Community Forum at Manly 

Leagues Club, alongside 



SPEAKING CIRCUIT: Neil was asked to 

deliver a REDx Talk at Mona Vale. 

Zali Steggall MP, novelist 

Thomas Keneally and Voice 

activist Thomas Mayo. He was 

advertised in the flyer as a 

‘Guringai Elder’. 

Nathan Moran, the president 

of the Metropolitan Local 

Aboriginal Land Council, 

who has been in dispute with 

Neil Evers regarding the land 

council’s plan to develop the 

Lizard Rock site at Belrose, 

spoke on 2GB questioning his 

heritage. 

“Neil Evers couldn’t identify 

that his parents identified 

as Aboriginal – he has not 

had any upbringing as an 

Aboriginal or life experience as 

an Aboriginal – and this is for 

a discussion about Aboriginal 

people.” 

Neil is quick to admit he is 

not an Elder. 

“I might be old [he is 81], 

but if people call me an Elder 

I tell them I’m not one. Elders 

hold knowledge. I don’t.” But 

he says there is no doubt 

about his Aboriginal ancestry. 

“And Nathan Moran has 

acknowledged and accepted 

me at several meeting for 

Aboriginal persons on the 

Northern Beaches.” 

Neil Evers isn’t interested 

in getting into a fight. Now 

his focus is on the upcoming 

referendum on the Indigenous 

Voice to Parliament. He likens 

the Australian constitution to a 

building. 

“For years the Aboriginal 

people have been on the 

outside of the building. A 

government spends millions 

of dollars setting up a scheme 

and then the next government 

rips it up and sets up its own. 

But if we can put that advisory 

group inside the constitution 

it cannot be knocked out. It’s a 

very modest request,” he says. 




Art Life 


Art Collective exhibition & sale 

ON SHOW: The Collective will feature works 

including Face (artist Catherine Frostick) and Birds 

of Paradise (Eva Jackson). 

The Art Collective, a group of Northern 

Beaches artists from varied backgrounds, 

will showcase their work in an exhibition 

at Terrey Hills on Sunday 5 November. 

Located at 13 Terrigal Road, the property’s 

studio and garden will be transformed into a 

fabulous gallery, offering visitors an eclectic 

mix of creative works. 

Catherine Frostick is the driving force behind 

the Art Collective’s exhibition which provides 

artists an opportunity to connect their works to a 

wider audience within 

the local community. 

“On display, will be 

a range of different 

mediums such as 

ceramics, jewellery, 

wreaths and paintings 

in oil, acrylic, watercolour 

and mixed media,” 

said Catherine. 

“These works 

showcase a diversity 

of visual language to 

foster connections 

with others – this 

can include floral, 

abstract, landscape, 

portrait and figurative 

paintings; dress jewellery, 

using semi-precious 

stones, pearls, metal pieces; ceramics that 

range from the practical to the fun and quirky 

such as Gillian Orton’s ‘Balloon Dog Series’; and 

decorative wreaths that welcome the visitor to 

your front door.” 

Catherine said visitors could buy unique and 

original pieces which may be ideal as a festive 

gift, or a piece of work that would enhance the 

family home. 

“An object or artwork that is crafted and instilled 

with an idea or message from an artist is truly special,” 

she said. “You may even want to commission 

an original piece from one of our artists.” 

Meet the participating artists including Mariette 

Balk, Allison Blake, Deb Burns, Beatrice Lundy, 

Amanda Cook, Catherine Frostick, Eva Jackson, 

Chrissie Koltai, Peter McDonald, Gillian Orton, 

Debra Waters and Monika Zigman. – Nigel Wall 

*Exhibition on Sunday 5 November, 9am-4pm, 

13 Terrigal Road Terrey Hills; more info call 

Eva Jackson 0432 532 150. 

Weaving 

workshop 

with a 

difference 

Join local Northern Beaches 

artist and environmental 

advocate Louise Nade in a fun 

and relaxing weaving workshop 

on Sunday 8 October. Louise 

is partnering with Reverse 

Garbage to deliver a unique 

workshop for all skill levels. 

Discover how to think differently 

about materials and use a 

variety of reclaimed resources 

to create your own abstract 

artwork. To be held in the Reverse 

Garbage Education space 

at The Hub, Kimbriki Resource 

Recovery Centre, this workshop 

is part of the exciting Sydney 

Craft Week program happening 

6-15 October. 

Operating since 1975, 

Reverse Garbage (RG) is a leading 

self-funded, not-for-profit 

charity, championing reuse and 

sustainability. Committed to the 

circular economy, RG delivers 

on social, economic and environmental 

impact targets. 

By supplying artists, schools, 

education programs, dramatic 

arts groups and creatives of 

all professions for almost 50 

years, their positive impact on 

the reduction of landfill is staggering. 

In the year 2020/2021 

RG diverted 146,103 kilos from 

landfill, served 42,012 customers 

and had 10,139 participants 

attend education programs. 

A Beaches local, member 

of the Pittwater Artist Trail 

and Tree Veneration Society, 

Louise’s creative processes are 

rooted in introspection and 

critical thinking, as she employs 

a reflective lens to examine the 

relationship between materials, 

societal attitudes towards 

waste, and the broader implications 

on our environment and 

society. 

Through her art, Louise challenges 

conventional notions 

of value, and encourages us to 

question preconceived ideas 

about what is considered valuable 

or disposable. 

Find out more at reversegarbage.org.au 

*Re-Weave with Louise Nade 

from 1-4pm on Sunday 8 

October; cost $85. Bookings 

classbento.com.au. 



Talent blooms in ‘Remaining Light’ 

Newport painter Simon Barlow says 

his second exhibition with Studio 

Gallery – ‘Remaining Light’ – brings 

forth an exquisite body of work that 

eloquently combines his dedication to perfecting 

his artistic process and his quest 

to immortalise his subjects. 

“Within this exhibition, the viewer encounters 

the ethereal remnants of light caressing 

the surfaces of flowers, revealing 

both the obvious and the suggested, the 

tangible and the enigmatic – a captivating 

ode to life’s final, elegiac moments of 

beauty and wonder,” said Simon. 

In the rich tapestry of artistic subjects, 

Simon says he has found a muse that 

perfectly encapsulates his preoccupation 

with light: flowers. 

These delicate and transient entities, 

symbolising mortality, spirituality, symbolism, 

and mythology, are the ideal medium 

through which he expresses the profound 

wonder that captivates his soul. 

Eyes on Mann-made beauty 

PETAL WORK: Simon’s stunningly vibrant and 

detailed Peony Portrait (153cm x 153cm) 

Simon’s paintings allow the viewer to 

linger, where the fragile yet resilient petals 

of a flower are illuminated by the gentle 

Eye Doctors Mona Vale is 

celebrating the expansion 

of their specialist medical eye 

practice. Established in 2012, 

this outstanding clinic covers 

all aspects of ocular health. 

Showcasing the works of 

local artists in their large 

reception area has raised much 

needed-funds for charities 

such as Cambodia Vision, with 

25 per cent of any sales generated 

donated by the artist. 

The practice’s current 

feature artist is Stephen Mann, 

a self-taught, local outdoor 

landscape artist who has a 

staggering 50 years’ experience 

painting on location. 

Stephen specialises in capturing 

the Northern Beaches’ 

tranquil history, from Palm 

Beach to Manly as well as Mosman 

and the sheer beauty of 

the Blue Mountains. 

“Each piece composes life, 

movement, history, originality, 

atmosphere, balance and 

composition, all created in pallet 

knife or watercolour using 

a selection of complimentary 

colours,” said Stephen. 

Stephen is well known for 

taking on challenging, largesize 

artworks, which he always 

completes on location, rain, 

hail or shine… this reputation 

is what makes his artwork 

extremely unique and collectable, 

as no two paintings are 

ever the same. 

– NW 

caress of ‘remaining light’. 

“I see an opportunity to elevate the 

ordinary to the extraordinary,” Simon said. 

“By magnifying the intricate details and 

unique qualities of each flower, I aim to 

invite viewers to explore these subjects 

in a new light, to appreciate the intricate 

beauty that often goes unnoticed. 

“I intend to ‘monumentalise’ my subject.” 

The result of many months of work, the 

paintings are created in oil on large canvases, 

minimum size 153 x 153cm. 

Simon began his painting journey on the 

Northern Beaches 20 years ago, with solo 

exhibitions in Avalon and Newport. His 

paintings have found their way into collections 

and homes across the globe. 

Exhibition is 5 – 19 October, Studio Gallery, 

3-7 Danks Street, Waterloo. – NW 

*To view the paintings and more info 

visit simonbarlow.com or studiogallerymelbourne.com.au 

EYE DOCTORS: Stephen with his painting of the former Barrenjoey Boatshed. 

*Follow Stephen’s journey 

through Instagram on Stephenmann14 

or check out his 

amazing artwork at stephenmannart.com 




49

Hot Property 

Set your sights on postcard views 

High on the list of many house hunters is a breathtaking vista. These three stunning homes 

with views of the ocean, the bush and Pittwater are sure to impress… Compiled by Lisa Offord 

Set on the headland and nestled in the beauty 

of Bilgola Beach, 31D The Serpentine captures 

magnificent views of the ocean, the beachfront 

and all the way to North Head. Recently 

renovated with a wealth of modern features, 

luxurious fixtures and finishes enhancing the 

timeless design of architect Michael Muir, the 

five-bedroom, three-bathroom home is set over 

three levels and offers a flexible and spacious 

floorplan with multiple living areas. Plenty of 

parking, alfresco entertaining decks, updated 

gardens, a level lawn and refurbished lap pool 

complete the picture. Contact Tara Jaijee Ray 

White Prestige Palm Beach. 

Hot Property 

This retreat on a ridgetop position at 12 Jacquelene 

Close Bayview enjoys sweeping views to the Ku-ringgai 

National Park. The beauty of nature meets the 

eye from the living room’s exquisite park vistas to 

the kitchen and private alfresco areas framed by rock 

formations. There are four bedrooms on the upper 

level, with two opening onto the balcony. The master 

has a large walk-in robe plus ensuite, with French 

doors leading to the garden. A lower-level fifth with 

ensuite is ideal as a guest bedroom with a second 

living space boasting a home theatre and sandstone 

fireplace. Contact Amy Young Laing+Simmons 

Avalon Beach. 

Boasting one the finest deep waterfront settings in 

Newport, the Mediterranean design of this grand 

residence is combined with a sun-drenched north 

aspect and views straight up Pittwater. With easy 

access from the street, 98 Prince Alfred Parade 

is one of graceful lines and grand proportions 

with self-contained suites and indoor/outdoor 

living spaces cascading over several levels to 

the waterfront. Serviced by an internal lift plus a 

separate inclinator from the house to the shoreline 

and a sparkling resort style pool, boathouse and 

deep-water jetty. For sale by expressions of interest 

by 3pm Oct 19. Contact David Edwards LJ Hooker 

Palm Beach or James Baker McGrath Pittwater. 



Rent growth ‘will slow’ 

Slowing rent rates could be 

a key trend in the housing 

market for 2024 due to rent 

prices flattening out – albeit 

at high levels, according to a 

recent CoreLogic report. 

The three reasons that 

CoreLogic expects to see 

a slowdown in the pace of 

rent increases are: 

1. Potentially lower rates 

Annual growth in rent 

values and interest rates 

move together over time, 

the report explains. Since 

it is forecast there will be a 

decline in the cash rate in 

2024, economists are also 

predicting this will flow 

on to the overall housing 

sector. 

“A reduction in interest 

rates could increase 

demand from housing 

investors, and increased 

investment purchases add 

to rental supply, which 

may serve to lower rent 

growth,” CoreLogic’s head 

of residential research Eliza 

Owen explained. 

2. A change in preferences 

Another potential reason 

for rents to fall is softer 

income growth. During the 

pandemic, household income 

growth shifted much higher, 

which allowed occupants 

to lease more-spacious 

properties, or move out of 

share-house agreements. 

“People could afford 

leases on more-spacious 

properties, which has 

contributed to lower stock 

levels as households spread 

out across the dwelling 

market,” Owen says. 

If income growth 

continues to slow in the 

next year, renters may look 

to re-form share houses. 

3. Stretched affordability 

If rents continue trending 

upwards, Australians will 

be further locked out of the 

rental market. According 

to CoreLogic’s data, rents 

have increased 29.3% since 

August 2020, which is the 

equivalent of around $134 a 

week in 2023. – LO 

Hot Property 



Local Author Q&A 

Risky business: Expert Tony’s 

memoir on keeping things safe 

Global security and safety professional Tony Loughran’s life is all about risk – 

taking it and preventing it. Tony’s memoir, written in the comfort of his Narabeen 

home, is an account of an extraordinary career which has placed him at the heart 

of some of the most dangerous places in the world… Interview by Lisa Offord 

Books 

Q: Tell us about yourself 

and your connection to the 

Northern Beaches 

I am a global risk specialist, 

with over 30 years of 

international experience 

as a safety and security 

professional. I was born in 

Liverpool in 1962; at 18, I joined 

the Royal Navy as a medic, 

then became a commando 

medic in the Royal Marines. 

In 1991, I took on the exciting 

and demanding role of safety 

and security expert for the 

BBC. Among much else, I 

revolutionised the way in which 

journalists cover conflicts, 

pioneering state-of-the-art 

body armour, improving 

vehicles and developing 

hostile environment courses 

that have become obligatory, 

and lifesaving for media 

personnel and others working 

in hazardous places. 

Since I moved to Australia in 

2002, I have developed my own 

security consultancy company, 

ZeroRisk International, which 

has continued to involve me in 

high-octane assignments and 

adventures all over the world, 

from Pakistan to Afghanistan 

and Ukraine. 

I first came to Avalon many 

years ago to buy a car from the 

Greek guy who owned the Fish 

& Chips shop and fell in love 

with the Northern Beaches, as 

it reminded me of Malta where 

I briefly lived as a 10-year-old. 

I have two kids (Tom and Erin) 

who go to Barrenjoey High 

School and have another two 

older kids Katie (Neutral Bay) 

and Brianna (Plymouth, UK). 

I now live in Narrabeen with 

my partner Kylie and her three 

kids (Koby, Clio and Jet). 

I travel a lot with my work 

often going to dangerous and 

remote places, recently Jenin 

(West Bank) but I always love 

coming back to the Northern 

Beaches, it’s literally one of the 

most wonderful places on earth. 

Q: What inspired you to write 

ZERO RISK? 

In 2007 I was a guest on ABC 

Conversations with Richard 

Fidler. After the interview I 

had a deluge of people asking 

if there was a book due out. 

In 2008 I wrote the title and 

introduction, but my company 

ZeroRisk got very busy and I 

parked it for a while. I’ve led an 

interesting life and I wanted 

to share my experiences with 

others. I also wanted to provide 

inspiration to those who feel 

their life is going nowhere, and 

to teens who are struggling with 

their parents and homelife, as 

I can totally relate; I’ve been on 

that journey, too. 

Q: How did it all come 

together? When did you write 

the book/ how long did it take? 

After jotting the first words 

down there was a lull for many 

years. One day I returned 

from Afghanistan after a very 

difficult trip and decided the 

time was right. I sent a message 

out on LinkedIn asking for 

someone to help me get started 

and I was introduced to Emma 

Wilson (Northern Beachesbased 

writer, editor and content 

creator). In total it took me 

about 18 months and I really 

enjoyed the process. My first 

draft focused on my military 

days but Echo Publishing 

wanted all of my experiences 

to be included. The book then 

started to take shape with my 

editors Juliet and Anna Rogers 

doing something quite amazing 

by hacking back everything I’d 

submitted, finding a ‘hook’ for 

each chapter and sprinkling 

my military experience 

into each chapter. To this day 

I have enough information to 

write another few books! 

Q: Describe your writing 

habits… 

The best time for me to write 

was early morning (0300 – 0700) 

as there was no-one around 

and I’d just sit at my computer 

and delve into my past, which 

was often painful. Quite often I 

would continue in the morning 

as I felt I was on a roll and 

just couldn’t stop. Two things 

I learnt from the start were: 

‘Don’t keep checking the word 

count’ and ‘Don’t be afraid 

to tell it as it is’. This was an 

important point for me, as often 

I’d write something and be 

worried that I’d offend someone, 

or some people wouldn’t like 

what I’d written. Emma and 

others were extremely helpful 

as they reinforced that this was 

my journey and a story that had 

to be told. 

Zero Risk Keeping Others 

Safe in a Dangerous World 

is available where all good 

books are sold. Keep an eye 

on the ZeroRisk International 

Facebook page for author talks. 



School Life 

When should a child start school? 

Educators have noticed a 

trend develop over the past 

20 years of families starting 

their children at school later 

rather than allowing their 

education to commence at the 

earliest opportunity. 

St Luke’s Grammar School 

Head of Junior School, Bayview 

– Peter Scott – says staff have 

found that this is often a wise 

decision, ensuring children 

enter school when they are 

truly ready, without rushing 

their development or forcing 

them to grow up too quickly. 

“This increased maturity 

means that when they start 

formal schooling, they are 

more prepared for the learning 

and social dynamics of 

Kindergarten and beyond,” he 

said. 

Mr Scott noted however, 

that each child was unique and 

added that for many, an earlier 

start was entirely appropriate. 

To help determine this, St 

Luke’s meets with families prior 

CRITICAL PHASE: Early learning. 

to enrolment and uses school 

readiness checklists to help 

parents decide what is best for 

their child. 

“Research shows the first 

five years of a child’s life are 

critical for their development 

and strongly predict how they 

will perform in school,” Mr Scott 

said. “Early learning is a critical 

phase in a child’s development 

that lays the foundation for 

lifelong learning and success.” 

He added the NSW 

Government recognised the 

importance of early learning 

in 2022, announcing a 10-year 

investment in universal prekindergarten 

to every four-year- 

old by 2030. 

The importance of play 

was a pillar in St Luke’s early 

education program. 

“During the critical early 

years, play serves as a 

powerful tool for learning, 

allowing children to explore, 

experiment, and make sense 

of the world in a natural and 

enjoyable way,” he said. 

“Through play, children 

develop crucial cognitive, 

social, and emotional skills. 

They engage in imaginative 

play scenarios, which foster 

creativity and problem-solving 

abilities.” 

Also, play provides an 

essential opportunity for 

children to practice skills 

such as sharing with others, 

taking turns, and negotiating 

with peers – all vital for a 

smooth transition into formal 

schooling. 

“And play builds their 

capacity for empathy, 

compassion and collaboration, 

skills they will use throughout 

their lives.” 

Mr Scott said St Luke’s 

Cottage Program (prekindergarten) 

provided a 

developmentally appropriate 

blend of play-based and more 

formalised learning activities in 

a resource-rich environment. 

“It’s a delightful introduction 

to the rich and exciting world 

of learning at school, and 

thoroughly prepares and equips 

children for the transition to 

‘big school’ the following year. 

“We aim to provide children 

with opportunities to develop 

the confidence to learn through 

play and a culture of learning 

through investigation. We have 

seen our Cottage learning 

spaces turned into a vets’ 

surgery, NASA space station, 

a zoo and a café. Through 

investigations like these, 

our students develop critical 

thinking skills and learn how 

to make connections between 

concepts.” – Nigel Wall 

School Life 



53

Health & Wellbeing 

Abuse, 

homelessness: 

what to do? 

Despite its idyllic setting, Pittwater and the Northern Beaches are not immune 

to domestic violence, abuse and issues of homelessness. Pittwater Life asked 

local experts to detail the extent of the problem. Special Report by Rob Pegley 


The NSW Domestic and 

Family Violence Plan 2022- 

2027 reports that 2.2 million 

women in Australia (23 per 

cent) have experienced violence 

by an intimate partner. 

NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics 

figures indicate there 

are more than 150 domestic 

violence incidents reported 

each month to the Northern 

Beaches Police Area Command. 

It is also reported that 1-in-6 

women (and-1-in-16 men) in the 

Northern Beaches Local Government 

Area have experienced 

violence by a partner. With over 

260,000 people in the 2021 census 

(49% male, 51% female), that 

equates to as many as 22,000 

women (and 8000 men) that are 

likely to have been subjected to 

abuse. 

Principal Solicitor with Scarf 

Family Law in Mona Vale 

Natasha Scarf says she believes 

domestic abuse is escalating in 

the area. 

“We have certainly seen an 

increase in matters involving 

family violence, which includes 

financial abuse and coercive 

control,” Natasha said. “Unfortunately, 

these have all existed in 

family law matters for decades; 

however we are seeing a significant 

increase.” 

Natasha said the most common 

form of abuse she had 

observed was the lesser known 

‘coercive control’. 

“That is, where the woman 

is ‘controlled’ by her partner 

in ways such as withholding 

or limiting access to money 

and financial records, stalking 

and monitoring movements, 

demanding access to mobile telephone/emails 

and social media 

accounts and so on,” she said. 

Coercive control and financial 

abuse over years can make it 

very difficult for a partner to 

leave a relationship. 

“Finances and in turn accommodation 

can be extremely 

hard to access, and a Catch 22 

situation occurs where fighting 

a legal case to obtain these 

basic rights is impossible due to 

a lack of funds,” she said. 

“With homes and bank 

accounts often in the male 

partners name – and control – 

women can end up staying in an 

abusive relationship or returning 

to their abuser due to a lack 

of other options.” 

The organisation Women 

Against Abuse notes that “… it 

can take approximately seven 

attempts before a survivor 

permanently leaves an abusive 

partner”. 

Again, Natasha has witnessed 

that first-hand. 

“It is quite common that 

the woman doesn’t have access 

to the funds needed to 

secure legal representation 

for herself. She is often also 

completely in the dark as to 

what assets and liabilities they 

had as a couple, as the husband 

controlled all the finances,” she 

explained. 

“Some women may also feel 

that (or have been told by the 

perpetrator) they do not deserve 

anything and will not get 

anything if they separate. 

“Those victims need the right 

support to understand the separation 

process.” 

Natasha said lawyers were 

often able to seek financial 

HELP: Narelle Hand. 

support for women who were 

victims of family violence. 

“There are choices available 

to women which are incredibly 

helpful, such as Litigation Lending 

– this allows the woman to 

borrow funds for her legal fees 

along with an amount to assist 

with day-to-day expenses, with 

repayments often not repayable 

until the matter is settled. 

“Having the advice from a 

Family Law lawyer prior to separation 

can be extremely helpful 

to victims of family violence 

– knowledge is power and that 

little bit of knowledge can often 

be the catalyst to leaving an 

unhealthy relationship.” 

Resources to fight a legal 

case can hopefully be found 

over time – but what about in 

the immediate short term, when 

just having a roof over your 

head is needed? 

Narelle Hand is Shelter Manager 

of the Northern Beaches 

Women’s Shelter, and Chair of 

the Northern Beaches Domestic 

Violence Network. The shelter 

can house 14 single women at 

any one time, and there is new 

accommodation on the way in 

the Pittwater area, which will be 

able to house four women with 

children in apartment accommodation. 

However, the available accommodation 

still falls well short of 

demand. 

“We turn away on average 

23 women per month,” Narelle 

says. “And that number is only 

based on when we advertise 

a vacancy – last Christmas we 

were getting 100 calls a week. 

“At the moment we’re finding 

accommodation for 80 women 

across the Northern Beaches, 

but we use anything we can to 

achieve that. 

“We get gifted property at 

low rates to use as pop-up 

shelters when people are going 

on holiday, or even seeking DA 

approvals. We do every single 

thing we can think of to house 

women. 

“If I don’t have a vacancy I will 

find someone that does. We’ll 

try to put someone up for a few 

days if we know a vacancy is 

coming up. 

“So many need accommodation… 

statistically it’s up around 

300, but that’s just based on 

the people who find us. I don’t 

know who’s sleeping in a car or 

on a couch, I only know the people 

who find my service.” 

While violence is often a 

focus, Narelle agrees with Natasha 

Scarf that coercive control 

is a huge problem, and that 

older women are increasingly at 

risk of becoming homeless as 

a result. 

“People who were never 

homeless are becoming home- 



less for the first time, either 

through a breakdown in their 

relationship, their employment 

or their health,” she explained. 

“Women 55-plus is the fastest 

growing cohort in terms 

of homelessness – and often 

it’s due to a lack of separation 

income. 

“Women can often find it hard 

to fight their case legally and 

will have a property asset that 

they can’t live in, because they 

can’t get access or it’s not safe 

to be there – and that can drag 

on for a very long time. 

“The psychological trauma of 

coercive control can have longterm 

damaging effects. People 

may not be wearing the physical 

scars externally, but they’re 

carrying them internally. Abuse 

comes in all forms and can be 

done in ways that don’t attract 

criminal attention, but still does 

harm.” 

When women do find crisis 

accommodation, either with 

Narelle or elsewhere, they stay 

for an average of 72 days. That 

time is used very much in the 

same way as rehab – to prepare 

women for the next stage of 

their life; to educate them and 

help them find a pathway out 

of their situation, so that they 

don’t have to return to their 

previous unsafe situation. 

“It’s an intensive time and 

we’re assessing what we can 

do for them long term in the 

area. There’s a two- to five-year 

wait for priority housing on the 

Northern Beaches and we want 

to set them up for success, so 

we need to present realistic 

options. 

“We don’t want people to fail. 

We try to transition them in a 

seamless way – each time they 

achieve something independently 

we take a step back.” 

Wende Jowsey, the Program 

Manager at the Women’s 

Resilience Centre in Mona Vale, 

agrees that education is vital. 

“The whole focus of what 

we’re about is the educationbased 

use of skills and experience 

to help women recover 

from abuse and trauma,” said 

Wende. “We help women who 

have had crisis help to transition 

with long-term recovery support. 

Financial help, help with 

employment skills… personal 

wellbeing skills. 

“When women can gain these 

EDUCATION: Wende Jowsey. 

skills they’re far less likely to 

return to an abusive situation. 

Women’s shelters on the Northern 

Beaches are at capacity. Domestic 

Violence went through 

the roof during COVID and the 

lockdowns. People still have this 

idea that these problems don’t 

happen in affluent parts of Australia 

like the Northern Beaches 

– and that’s not the case.” 

Founder and Director of the 

Women’s Resilience Centre 

Simone Allan is quick to point 

out that this isn’t necessarily a 

women’s problem, but rather a 

community problem. 

“We don’t want to demonise 

men,” said Simone. “We know 

that this can be a problem for 

men as well. We want a safer 

community for everyone.” 

Narelle Hand agrees. 

“We just want a violence-free 

community,” she said. “Although 

most perpetrators are men, we 

have no issues with men, we 

just have issues with people 

who perpetrate violence. 

“Men play such a strong part 

in role-modelling good healthy 

relationships. We want men to 

champion the cause because 

they have a really important role 

in mentoring young people and 

changing the culture. 

“We want men to express 

themselves, so that they don’t 

let things build up and have explosive 

moments or have breakdowns 

and mental disorders. 

“Everybody plays a part… 

everybody can do something.” 

*Contact the Northern 

Beaches Women’s Shelter 

(9977 7772). Also the Northern 

Beaches Domestic Violence 

Triage service (0404 445 940); 

coordinated by the Northern 

Beaches Domestic Violence 

Network, this service operates 

7 days a week, 9.30am to 8pm. 





With Emma van Wanrooy 


‘Hearing aids make brains 

lazy’ & other common myths 

We often perceive hearing 

as just being about our 

ears, but in fact it is so 

much more complex than that. 

As an Audiologist, a vital part 

of my job is educating people 

and debunking a lot of myths 

around hearing that include: 

1. Hearing aids are only for 

old people 

This is one of the most common 

myths, but 2 in 1000 babies are 

born with a hearing loss, and 1 

in 7 Australians have a hearing 

loss. So, there are people of 

all ages wearing hearing aids 

– including Mackenzie Arnold, 

goalkeeper for the Matildas. 

During the pandemic, a lot of 

people found that their hearing 

loss made it harder to conduct 

Zoom meetings or hear people 

who were wearing a facemask. 

This led them to acquire hearing 

aids for the first time. 

2. I don’t have a hearing loss – 

people just don’t speak clearly 

Hearing loss often affects high 

pitch sounds but not low pitch 

sounds. You can therefore hear 

a person speaking, but their 

speech sounds unclear. Hearing 

loss usually happens slowly so 

you don’t notice that you are 

losing your hearing. A regular 

hearing check is therefore a 

good idea. 

3. Nothing can be done for 

tinnitus 

Tinnitus is the name given to a 

sound you can hear in your ears 

or head that isn’t coming from 

the environment around you. It 

is often a ringing sound, but can 

be a rushing noise or something 

else. Tinnitus is often the brain’s 

reaction to the absence of sound 

as the result of a hearing loss. 

Research has found that in these 

instances, hearing aids are very 

effective in helping to diminish 

the tinnitus or getting rid of it 

completely. Treatment for tinnitus 

includes determining the 

cause of the tinnitus (including 

ensuring there is no medical 

reason), understanding what 

will trigger and what will help 

to relieve it and putting some 

strategies in place to retrain your 

brain not to attend to the noise. 

In some cases, more intensive 

therapy is required. 

4. Wearing hearing aids makes 

your brain lazy 

People who wear their hearing 

aids every day will often comment 

that their hearing is worse 

when they take the hearing aids 

out. However, this is likely to be 

because the brain’s perception 

of sound is shaped by our most 

recent listening experience. A 

strong body of evidence is building 

that indicates that hearing 

aid use is linked to a slower rate 

of cognitive decline. Mackenze 

Arnold commented at the recent 

Women’s World Cup that she 

didn’t perform as well against 

Nigeria because she hadn’t worn 

her hearing aids during the day 

prior to that match. She acknowledged 

that getting into a habit 

of daily use of her hearing aids 

was important. 

5. Your hearing aids don’t work 

– you still can’t hear me 

How well someone hears with 

their hearing aids will depend on 

several factors that include: 

• The degree of hearing loss 

they have; 

• The speaker: are they facing 

the listener and are they speaking 

slowly and clearly? Are they 

close by (less than 1 metre) or 

far away/ in another room? 

• How well/ how recently the 

hearing aids have been fine 

tuned to the individual by the 

Audiologist; 

• The acoustics of the environment. 

A small quiet room is 

much easier than a large noisy 

environment. 

Everyone’s hearing is different 

and so an appointment with an 

Audiologist who can assess your 

own unique situation is always a 

good idea. 

*Emma van Wanrooy is the 

principal audiologist at 

Pittwater Hearing in Avalon; 

more info 8919 0008. 



Give back at Mona 

Vale Hospital 

Volunteers and community members have always been a 

major asset to Mona Vale Hospital’s staff, patients and 

their families, as well as carers. 

The hospital receives generous gift donations from the 

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary, who have gifted close to $2 million 

to the hospital since 2017. 

Yvonne Parsons, long-term volunteer at Mona Vale Hospital 

and Honorary President of the auxiliary, says giving back to 

the community’s hospital is something her and her fellow 

volunteers take pride in. 

“The hospital provides a valuable service to the community,” 

Yvonne said. “Volunteering is a way of giving back and 

helping the hospital help the community.” 

The auxiliary run local stalls at Pittwater Place and Bunnings 

Belrose to raise funds. 

“We have a dedicated team but are always ready to welcome 

new members,” Yvonne said. 

“Volunteers can also become members of the consumer 

participation committee that provides advice on hospital 

planning and performance and works with the hospital 

executive to promote effective community consultation and 

partnership.” 

Mona Vale Hospital General Manager Mathivanan Sakthivel 

said there were a range of activities volunteers could do, 

from being a companion to helping with activities such as 

taking around the tea and snacks trolley, playing bingo or 

watching movies with patients. 

*If you would like to be involved contact NSLHD-MVHVolunteer@health.nsw.gov.au 

or call 9998 6294. 





OPINION by Kat Adamski 


Perimenopause & puberty: 

when home worlds collide 

Sometimes it feels like the 

joke is on me. I was so 

proud and happy to have 

my first child at almost 40 

(along with a second baby at 

43), but now that I’ve turned 50 

the tables have turned. 

Hormones have taken over 

our household. I’ve entered the 

perimenopause years – which 

can last four to six years on 

average – and I’m experiencing 

at least a few of the most 

common symptoms. Hello to 

mood swings, brain fog and 

tiredness (and you can also 

throw in reduced confidence, 

trouble concentrating, 

headaches, low libido, vaginal 

dryness and hot flushes for 

many women). 

And just like that my world 

has collided with my 11-year-old 

daughter’s, who is experiencing 

the same sort of mood changes 

and energy level variations, 

albeit as a normal part of 

puberty. 

So here we are – 

perimenopausal and on 

the brink of puberty. 

Perimenopause is the stage 

of life leading up to your 

last menstrual period, which 

is known as menopause. 

The changes of puberty are 

physical, sexual, social and 

emotional. 

Trust me, it’s easier said than 

done to ignore a once sweet 

child who is now full of attitude 

and eye rolls. Ok, she’s still a 

beautiful, friendly, engaging 

young girl but I’ve realised that 

our closeness as mother and 

daughter has come at a price. 

BRAIN FOG: A common symptom 

associated with perimenopause. 

Our talks can now sometimes 

become combative, so I have to 

remember the most important 

thing – I am the adult. 

It’s far easier to take the high 

ground and ask her to re-shape 

how she’s just spoken, or just 

ignore the sass, than go into 

battle each time. 

The good news is that help 

is at hand for women. A free 

online toolkit offers advice on 

how to better recognise and 

understand the symptoms of 

perimenopause and menopause. 

It provides information as 

well as locations of NSW 

Government-funded clinics. 

While women in previous 

generations used to deal with 

these stages of life privately, 

high-profile women have 

brought the topic into the 

mainstream. 

Northern Beaches resident 

Alison Brahe-Daddo writes 

openly about wishing she knew 

more about menopause before 

going through it in her book, 

Queen Menopause: Finding Your 

Majesty in the Mayhem. 

Celebrities including 

Gywneth Paltrow, Naomi Watts 

and Serena Williams are all 

investors in the global wellness 

menopause industry, which 

barely existed five years ago but 

is projected to be worth $840 

billion by 2025. 

While Aussie actress Watts 

can still light up the big 

screen – think of her portrayal 

as Newport’s Sam Bloom 

in ‘Penguin Bloom’ – she is 

also helping to destigmatise 

menopause with a new social 

media platform. 

And who can forget Drew 

Barrymore’s reaction on her talk 

show while she was interviewing 

Jennifer Aniston. Refusing 

to downplay the experience, 

Barrymore candidly said, “I 

am so hot, I think I’m having 

my first perimenopause hot 

flushes.” 

Women live about a third 

of their life after menopause 

so it’s important for women’s 

health and wellbeing that we 

break down social stigmas 

around discussing and seeking 

treatment, according to former 

NSW Minister for Women, 

Bronnie Taylor. 

“We need to remember 

menopause is normal,” Ms 

Taylor said. 

Even Dr Ginni Mansberg, a 

Sydney-based GP with more 

than 30 years’ experience 

specialising in women’s health, 

was ashamed to admit that she 

knew “less than nothing” about 

menopause until a few years 

ago. 

“In fact, I was a bit dismissive 

of patients who came to see 

me about it: a bit of that ‘suck 

it up, princess’ mentality,” Dr 

Mansberg has been reported as 

saying. 

“Because the more I learnt, 

the more I realised how complex 

and grim it can be.” 

I am dealing with my own 

changes as best as I can while 

at the same time trying to show 

compassion for the changes 

my daughter is experiencing. 

Remember, try to stay calm 

during angry outbursts from 

your child. Stay positive and 

keep things in perspective 

– adolescence does not last 

forever; it is a temporary stage 

in your young person’s life. 

While there may not be a day 

dedicated to tweens, there is a 

Menopause Day, coincidentally 

almost two-thirds of the way 

through Menopause Month, on 

October 18. 

It might become a day that 

my daughter and I can celebrate 

together. 

* Resources and more info at 

nsw.gov.au/women-nsw 




with Rowena Beckenham 


Use your benefits now 

For most of us, the end of 

spring means planning 

for holidays, pulling those 

swimmers out of the back 

of our closets, organising 

Christmas gifts, and preparing 

for an influx of family and 

friends. It’s easy to get lost 

in the chaos and excitement 

of the festive season – but if 

you have a health fund that 

covers optical expenses, make 

sure to add a trip to your local 

optometrist to your to-do list. 

Using your health fund 

benefits before 31 December 

is a must if you want to avoid 

losing any benefits. Most 

health funds have annual limits 

on the amount you can claim 

for optical services, and any 

unused benefits typically don’t 

roll over into the next calendar 

year. This means if you haven’t 

used up your optical benefits 

by the end of the year, you’ll 

lose them. 

Chances are if you have 

optical cover, you’ve been 

paying expensive premiums all 

year, so now is the time to take 

advantage of your health fund 

cover. There are many ways to 

use your health fund rebate, 

and your local optometrist can 

help you find the option that’s 

right for you. 

Why not consider a spare 

pair of reading glasses? If you 

are always losing your specs, 

it might make sense to grab 

another pair to keep around 

the house or leave in your car 

for emergencies. 

Most optometry practices 

also offer some ‘no-gap’ 

spectacle frame options, that 

they can charge exclusively to 

your private health insurance. 

Or perhaps you’ve noticed 

your vision isn’t quite as good 

as it used to be and those 

readers just aren’t cutting it 

anymore; multifocal lenses are 

the perfect solution so you 

don’t have to constantly change 

pairs. Conveniently, you can 

wear multifocal glasses for all 

occasions. 

Alternatively, you could 

invest in a pair of prescription 

sunglasses, perfect for summer 

days reading by the beach or 

perusing the menu at your local 

cafe. Or maybe you’re seeking 

a new look; as summer rolls 

around, in too do new-season 

styles. 

Perhaps you’d like the 

ease of not having to worry 

about having your glasses on 

you at all times; if that’s the 

case, contact lenses may be 

the perfect solution. Some 

optometry practices, including 

Beckenham Optometrist, 

can even provide you with 

prescription swimming 

goggles so you can see clearly 

while you snorkel, ocean swim 

or swim laps. 

These options are all 

available to claim using your 

health fund, before cover 

lapses on 1 January. Get in 

early before the summer rush 

to make the most out of your 

health fund payments, by 

visiting your local optometrist 

to claim your benefits before 

the end of the year. 

Comment supplied by 

Rowena Beckenham, of 

Beckenham Optometrist 

in Avalon (9918 0616). 

Rowena has been 

involved in all facets 

of independent private 

practice optometry in 

Avalon for more than 

20 years, in addition to 

working as a consultant to 

the optometric and 

pharmaceutical industry, 

and regularly volunteering 

in Aboriginal eyecare 

programs in regional NSW. 



Hair & Beauty 

with Sue Carroll 

Beauty Show reveals trends 

and what’s making news 


The past couple of 

months have been busy 

and exciting post the 

recent Aesthetic Show, which 

was held at Darling Harbour 

and had international guests, 

new products and treatments 

released. 

One of the notable guests 

was Dr Matthias Aust who 

is a plastic surgeon from 

Germany. Dr Aust presented 

a training course on updates 

with micro-needling. This was 

a jam-packed day with new 

information on how to achieve 

optimum results with this 

procedure. The next day, I was 

privileged to be in an exclusive 

class of three for what was 

almost a one-on-one brainpicking 

afternoon, during which 

Dr Aust shared the techniques 

he has perfected over the years; 

now we are fortunate to extend 

these ‘pearls’ to our clients. 

Now is a great time to have 

the micro-needling treatment 

in preparation for the Summer 

party season, which is only a 

heartbeat away. ‘Skin Flooding’ 

is the latest TikTok trend 

sweeping the globe. This 

term comes from the Korean 

skincare practice of flooding 

your skin with hydration to 

achieve the radiant glow we all 

strive to achieve. 

Skin Flooding is a ‘buzz 

term’ for something which is 

basically good, sound skin 

principles. This will consist of 

cleansing, gauze and tone, 

serums and hydration, to 

achieve the greatest efficacy 

and absorption of products. 

In a nutshell, start with the 

thinnest water-based serum and 

work up to the thickest product 

which is the treatment cream. 

‘Barbie’ is permeating 

everything we do – and it’s 

no surprise that the beauty 

industry is also seeing an 

influx of trends related to the 

world’s most iconic doll; hence 

the emergence of ‘Traptox’ 

or ‘Trapezius Slimming’, or 

‘Barbie Shoulders’. Using antiwrinkle 

injections, this nonsurgical 

procedure promises to 

transform and soften the upper 

arms and clavicle region to give 

a more feminine appearance. 

By day the skin protects 

itself, by night it repairs 

itself. Piggybacking onto this 

physiological phenomenon, 

our skincare ritual is a vital 

part of the repair process. The 

circadian rhythm, or the body 

clock, is a 24-hour cycle that 

regulates all living creatures, 

telling us when to eat and sleep. 

Left to its own devices – that 

is, no party drugs, caffeine, 

adrenaline, or undue stress 

interrupting things – our 

bodies’ circadian sleep pattern 

kicks in around 9pm. 

Melatonin, the sleep hormone 

that protects skin from sun 

damage and pollution during 

the day, starts signalling about 

this time that it is time to wind 

down. As we sleep, major skin 

revival and repair really kick 

in, enhancing cell turnover 

and increasing the production 

of human growth hormone 

(HGH) that helps tissue repair 

and regeneration. This all 

being said, means we need to 

capitalise on our night skincare 

regime and include serums 

such as retinol, antioxidants, 

growth factor, hyaluronic acid 

and multivitamins, ensuring our 

skin is revitalised by morning. 

It is postulated that SIBO – 

intestinal bacterial overgrowth 

– may trigger rosacea by 

increasing the number of 

cytokines, a type of protein 

that tells other cells what to 

do. In this case, cytokines tell 

the body to become inflamed, 

in certain areas. As in most 

cases, treat internally and 

externally with a prescribed 

homecare product regime and 

the symptoms will either be 

reduced or eradicated. 

Some of the wellness 

trends happening both in 

Australia and overseas include: 

Hydrothermal Wellness, 

InnovativeMind/Body Wellness 

beds, Longevity-focused 

programming, Hyperbaric 

Oxygen, LED and Bioptron Light 

therapy, HOCAT chambers and 

also a return to outdoor spaces 

for wellness. 

The combination of hot 

and cold therapy in skin care 

treatments can assist the skin 

in healing itself. 

No matter how good a new 

skin treatment might be, I 

still believe a good home care 

regimen, a positive attitude, 

a well-balanced diet, healthy 

exercise, a restful night of 

sleep and the wisdom to love 

yourself at every age will help 

you meet the pro-aging process 

positively. 

Sue Carroll is at the forefront 

of the beauty, wellness 

and para-medical profession 

with 35 years’ experience on 

Sydney’s Northern Beaches. 

She leads a dedicated team 

of professionals who are 

passionate about results for 

men and women. 

info@skininspiration.com.au 

www.skininspiration.com.au 

OCTOBER 2023 61 

Hair & Beauty

Business Life: Money 

with Brian Hrnjak 

Business Life 

What’s going on in Avalon, 

and those ‘For Lease’ signs? 

This month we cast an eye 

around the local area and 

ask if an uptick in ‘for 

lease’ signs in our shopping 

areas is pointing to recession… 

or is it renewal? 

I couldn’t help notice the 

scale of community reaction 

to a mid-September post on a 

local Facebook page regarding 

the fate of a fresh pasta business. 

Avalon What’s On (also 

known as Avalon What’s Wrong, 

or, simply What’s Wrong) is 

a popular social media clearing 

house, equal parts gossip, 

opinion and information. In this 

case the closure of the local 

pasta shop whipped up a few 

of the locals to the point they 

were off to their barns for rope, 

torches and pitchforks and they 

were out for the blood of the 

‘greedy landlords’. 

In amongst the comments, 

however, were observations 

about the number of vacant 

shops currently in the Avalon 

Village. 

There certainly has been 

some turnover in the commercial 

area. Aside from the pasta 

shop, Dogue, a pet grooming 

salon, is said to be leaving its 

premises. Decjuba, a women’s 

boutique is also supposedly 

closing. One of the day spas 

is currently missing in action – 

voucher holders are naturally 

concerned (although word has 

it head office will fulfil). The 

Ray White agency at the southern 

end of the Village has gone 

and the space is up for lease; 

the former site of Beachside 

Bookshop is still vacant; the 

former Northbean Café site is 

a new and prominent vacancy; 

and the Council seems to be 

experiencing extreme difficulty 

doing anything with the 

restaurant and cafe sites at the 

surf club. 

Balancing these things, a 

deeper dive into the gossip 

suggests that the pasta shop is 

in fact rebranding and staying 

on, while the women’s boutique 

is apparently reopening 

at Warriewood Square. We’ve 

also had new additions to the 

Village with the Yorkshire Rose 

English pub taking a space vacated 

by the Pizzico restaurant 

and Pocket Pizza moving into 

the site of the former Leonardo’s 

Deli. The former dry 

cleaner is now a display unit for 

an over-55s development and 

a kid’s boutique has taken the 

space of the former Meltemi’s 

pizza. Oh yes, a ‘confectionary’ 

shop has moved into the site 

of the former Sky Thai; we are 

now down to three Thai restaurants 

in Avalon, four if you include 

the one in North Avalon. 

Even if some observers feel 

the only service businesses 

left will be real estate agencies 

and the only restaurants will be 

Thai eateries, the fact is that 

Avalon is still a vibrant village 

and a popular one if parking 

availability is anything to go 

by. The same can also be said 

also for Barrenjoey Rd Newport 

and Bungan St Mona Vale. 

There is little doubt however 

that economic conditions have 

slowed since the RBA started 

their tightening cycle. We hear 

stories across most consumerdependant 

sectors of pullbacks 

that business owners are attributing 

to the impact of higher 

mortgage rates and a lack 

of confidence affecting the 

spending of those who don’t 

even have a mortgage. 

Patrick Commins in The 

Australian reported recent 

economic data in the following 

terms: ‘While the national accounts 

suggested the economy 

finished the recent financial 

year in relatively good shape, 

the figures pointed to the growing 

financial pressure on households. 

Homeowners shelled 

out nearly $83bn in mortgage 

interest repayments in the 

2022-23 financial year, double 

the previous year’s bill, the ABS 

data revealed.’ 

Household buffers have also 

fallen to 15-year lows with the 

savings ratio now at 3.2% of 

disposable income compared 

to a peak of 19% in September 

2021 following the distribution 

of helicopter money after the 

pandemic. 

Lisa Visentin in the SMH reported 

the progress of borrowers 

on the transition from fixed 

to variable rate home loans 

– the so-called mortgage cliff: 

‘The economic impact of the socalled 

mortgage cliff may have 



already passed its peak, with 

RBA data revealing the majority 

of Australians have already 

moved from cheaper fixed-rate 

home loans to more expensive 

variable rates. About one million 

Australians are paying a 

more expensive variable interest 

rate on their mortgages, 

according to Reserve Bank of 

Australia data. This compares 

with 520,000 loans expected to 

roll onto higher interest rates 

in the second half of this year, 

followed by a further 450,000 

loans next year.’ 

The issue here being that we 

are seeing a negative impact on 

economic activity at the halfway 

point of this transition with 

the same again yet to come. Arguably 

you could stop right 

here and say that a recession 

is on the cards, but the data is 

never so clear cut. 

Economists vary widely in 

their interpretations and forecasts. 

Currently economists 

are talking about a ‘per capita 

recession’; Patrick Commins in 

The Australian: ‘After accounting 

for the bounce in population 

growth thanks to a resurgence 

of migration over the past 12 

months, real GDP per capita 

dropped by 0.3 per cent – the 

second consecutive quarterly 

decline that reflected falling 

living standards for many 

households even as the overall 

economy grew.’ 

Quite a few of us might find 

it surprising that our population 

to 30 June grew by 2.2% or 

by more than 560,000 people 

– in part this goes towards explaining 

the paradox of slowing 

economic growth, stable house 

prices and moderate wages 

growth. 

While there are risks, Australia 

does have a few positive 

economic attributes to counter 

some of the negativity; strong 

population growth, resurgent 

tourism, returning foreign 

students and strong demand 

and unit prices for resources 

and agriculture being the main 

ones. 

Locally, we also have several 

attributes that boost our economic 

resilience, in particular 

we have the natural attractions 

that draw people to want to 

live and visit our area. As an 

established area we also experience 

lower-than-average 

rates of mortgage stress – 34% 

of homes are owned outright 

compared to the Sydney average 

of 27%. Our employment 

statistics are also stronger than 

the Sydney average at 2.3% 

unemployment rate versus the 

Sydney average of 3.4%. 

These statistics suggest that 

a well-run business in our area 

has a greater chance of success 

than the same business 

operated, for example, in a 

regional area, or outer western 

Sydney. But there are statistics 

and there are averages; the 

best way for a community to 

ensure the success of its local 

businesses is to shop there… 

and shop there often. 

Brian Hrnjak B Bus CPA (FPS) is 

a Director of GHR Accounting 

Group Pty Ltd, Certified Practising 

Accountants. Office: Suite 12, 

Ground Floor, 20 Bungan Street 

Mona Vale NSW. 

Phone: 02 9979-4300. 

Web: ghr.com.au and altre.com.au 

Email: brian@ghr.com.au 

These comments are general 

advice only and are not intended as 

a substitute for professional advice. 

This article is not an offer or 

recommendation of any securities 

or other financial products offered 

by any company or person. 




Business Life: Law 

with Jennifer Harris 


Issues of Contract: As with 

property, no two are alike 

With interest rates at a 

recent all-time high 

and house prices often 

still going beyond reserve – 

vendors and purchasers are 

still steadily going to market. 

Some cashed-up purchasers 

with an eye to ‘distressed sales’ 

and a competitive price. Some 

vendors are looking to take 

advantage of the increased 

value of their property, since 

purchase, which accelerated 

in recent years but has not 

necessarily fallen below the 

value reached during the lowinterest-rates 

buying frenzy. 

Vendors are in touch with 

their solicitors or conveyancers 

to obtain a Contract to put in 

the hands of the real estate 

agent to enable the property 

to be shown to prospective 

purchasers; from there the 

process of buying and selling 

formally begins. 

The real estate agent’s 

task is to market and sell the 

property to a purchaser/s and 

that having been done the 

solicitor or conveyancer does 

the Conveyancing. 

Conveyancing is defined 

as “the science and art of 

validly creating, transferring 

and extinguishing rights in 

property particularly in or 

over land by written deeds of 

various kinds. It is accordingly a 

major branch of legal work and 

lawyers’ business” (the Oxford 

Companion to Law). 

In this discussion the 

property to which we refer is 

NSW residential property. 

The Contract provided to 

a prospective purchaser by 

either the real estate agent 

or the solicitor acting for the 

purchaser is in a form approved 

by the Law Society and the Real 

Estate Institute. 

The first 21 pages are those 

specifically approved by the 

Law Society and the Real Estate 

Institute (“formal terms and 

conditions”). The first page 

contains the details of the Real 

Estate Agent, the Vendors, 

the inclusions to be conveyed 

with the property, and those 

specifically excluded, the 

Purchaser’s details and the price 

specifically noting the deposit 



which is normally 10% of the 

purchase price. 

Most solicitors and 

conveyancers add to the 

Contract their own special 

conditions that compliment, 

modify or are additional to the 

formal terms and conditions. 

No two Contracts are ever the 

same. 

Within the Contract and 

attached to the formal terms 

and conditions are found 

a search of the Title of the 

property which discloses the 

names of the persons who 

are conveying the title, any 

encumberance/s or registered 

dealings on the title and 

whether or not they have a 

mortgage to be discharged 

at settlement. This is an 

important document because 

it discloses whether there 

is a burden, obstruction or 

impediment on the property 

that may lessen its value 

or make it less marketable. 

Importantly, unless a mortgage 

is removed a clear title cannot 

be conveyed. 

There must be a copy of 

the Deposited Plan and if 

available a copy of a Survey 

showing that the property and 

its improvements are within 

the land described on the 

Certificate of Title, a Zoning 

Certificate from Council and a 

Sewerage Service Diagram and 

if a swimming pool is included 

compliance certifications. 

If there have been any 

substantial works carried out 

on the property then a Final 

Occupation Certificate and 

Builders’ warranty insurance 

should also be found. 

Purchasers should do their 

research: Look at the property 

in all light and weather. Ask 

for a copy of the Contract 

and obtain legal advice on its 

terms and conditions. Read the 

Contract and if required instruct 

your Solicitor to negotiate 

changes to the terms and 

conditions of the Contract. 

Arrange and obtain certain 

pre-purchase reports such 

as Pest and Building Reports; 

often not all is as it may appear 

from the outside. Take time to 

explore all avenues of enquiry. 

Knowing your legal rights 

can have profound long-term 

consequences on your finances 

as well as your quality of life. 

On occasions while you are 

having a building and pest 

report you may have exchanged 

conditionally by utilising a 

cooling off period. During this 

period you have the right to 

change your mind if there is 

something in the reports that 

you have sought that causes 

you concern; for example 

extensive termite invasion 

which diminishes the value of 

the property and signals to a 

purchaser that they may have 

major future expense to rectify 

the problem. The downside is 

that a purchaser who rescinds 

a Contract during a cooling off 

period likely forfeits 0.25% of 

the purchase price. 

On the other hand, the 

purchaser may have conducted 

and completed their prepurchase 

inspections prior to 

exchange of Contracts and 

will instruct their solicitor to 

exchange Contracts and pay the 

10% deposit. 

In these circumstances the 

purchaser’s solicitor may well 

sign on their client’s behalf a 

waiver of the cooling off period 

via a Section 66 Certificate. 

On the other hand the 

property may be purchased 

at Auction or on the same 

day as the Auction. In these 

circumstances there is no 

cooling off period. 

Prior to any Auction you 

should obtain a copy of 

the Contract from the Real 

Estate Agent and obtain your 

solicitor’s advice on the terms 

and conditions contained in it. If 

terms and conditions are not to 

your satisfaction you can seek 

to negotiate terms satisfactory 

to you. 

On exchange of Contracts 

the Contract signed by the 

Purchaser is handed to the 

Vendor’s solicitor and they 

are compared to ensure that 

they are in identical terms. 

The deposit must be paid or 

a Deposit Guarantee Bond 

handed over at that time and 

then the contracts are dated. 

In our next article we will 

provide more details of the 

Conveyancing procedure. 

Comment supplied by 

Jennifer Harris, of Jennifer 

Harris & Associates, 

Solicitors, 4/57 Avalon 

Parade, Avalon Beach. 

T: 9973 2011. F: 9918 3290. 

E: jennifer@jenniferharris.com.au 

W: www.jenniferharris.com.au 




Trades & Services 


AIR CONDITIONING 

Alliance Climate Control 

Call 02 9186 4179 

Air Conditioning & Electrical Professionals. 

Specialists in Air Conditioning Installation, 

Service, Repair & Replacement. 

BATHROOMS 

Northern Beaches Bathrooms 

Call 0475 147 375 

Specialists at complete bathroom 

renovations, mains and ensuites. Prompt, 

reliable. High-quality work. Free quotes. 

BATTERIES 

Battery Business 

Call 9970 6999 

Batteries for all applications. Won’t be beaten 

on price or service. Free testing, 7 days. 

BUILDING 

Acecase Pty Ltd 

Call Dan 0419 160 883 

Professional building and carpentry services, 

renovations, decks, pergolas. Fully licensed 

& insured. Local business operating for 25 

years. Lic No. 362901C 

CARPENTRY 

Able Carpentry & Joinery 

Call Cameron 0418 608 398 

Doors & locks, timber gates & handrails, decking 

repairs and timber replacement. Also privacy 

screens. 25 years’ experience. Lic: 7031C. 

CARS WANTED 

AAA Absolutely Unwanted 

Call Mike 0414 423 200 

All cars, vans, utes and trucks removed free; 

cash up to $30,000. Same-day removal all 

suburbs. 

CLEANING 

Amazing Clean 

Call Andrew 0412 475 2871 

Specialists in blinds, curtains and awnings. 

Clean, repair, supply new. 

All NB Pressure Clean 

Call 0416 215 095 

Driveways, paths, garden walls, awnings, house 

wash. 

DISCLAIMER: The editorial and 

advertising content in Pittwater Life 

has been provided by a number of 

sources. Any opinions expressed are not 

necessarily those of the Editor or Publisher 

of Pittwater Life and no responsibility is 

taken for the accuracy of the information 

contained within. Readers should make 

their own enquiries directly to any 

organisations or businesses prior to 

making any plans or taking any action. 



Housewashing - 

northernbeaches.com.au 

Call Ben 0408 682 525 

Celebrating 25 years in Avalon & Collaroy. 

Experts in softwashing & pressure washing. 

Also windows, gutters, roofs & driveways. 

CONCRETING 

Adrians Concrete 

Call Adrian 0404 172 435 

Driveways, paths, slabs… all your concreting 

needs; Northern Beaches-based. 

ELECTRICAL 

Alliance Service Group 

Call Adrian 9063 4658 

All services & repairs, 24hr. Lighting 

installation, switchboard upgrade. Seniors 

discount 5%. 

Eamon Dowling Electrical 

Call Eamon 0410 457 373 

For all electrical needs including phone, TV 

and data. Pittwater-based. Reliable; quality 

service guaranteed. 

Warrick Leggo 

Call Warrick 0403 981 941 

Specialising in domestic work; small jobs 

welcome. Seniors’ discount; Narrabeenbased. 

FENCING 

Add-A-Fence 

Call Adam 0410 332 197 

Supply and install for pool, garden, all timber 

and tubular fencing. Plus gates, handrails, 

security and more. Repairs / small & big jobs. 

Lic 3391C. 

FLOOR COVERINGS 

Blue Tongue Carpets 

Call Stephan or Roslyn 9979 7292 

Northern Beaches Flooring Centre has 

been family owned & run for over 20 years. 

Carpets, Tiles, Timber, Laminates, Hybrids & 

Vinyls. Open 6 days. 

GARDENS 

!Abloom Ace Gardening 

Call 0415 817 880 

Full range of gardening services including 

landscaping, maintenance and rubbish 

removal. 

Conscious Gardener Avalon 

Call Matt 0411 750 791 

Professional local team offering quality 

garden maintenance, horticultural advice; 

also garden makeovers. 

Precision Tree Services 

Call Adam 0410 736 105 

Adam Bridger; professional tree care by 

qualified arborists and tree surgeons. 

GUTTERS & ROOFING 

Cloud9 R&G 

Call Tommy 0447 999 929 

Prompt and reliable service; gutter cleaning 

and installation, leak detection, roof installation 

and painting. Also roof repairs specialist. 

Ken Wilson Roofing 

Call 0419 466 783 

Leaking roofs, tile repairs, tiles replaced, 

metal roof repairs, gutter cleaning, valley 

irons replaced. 

HANDYMEN 

Local Handyman 

Call Jono 0413 313299 

Small and medium-sized building jobs, also 

welding & metalwork; licensed. 

JEWELLER 

Gold ‘n’ Things 

Call 9999 4991 

Specialists in remodelling. On-premises 

(Mona Vale) workshop for cleaning, repairing 

(including laser welding), polishing. Family 

owned for nearly 40 years. 

HOT WATER 

Hot Water Maintenance NB 

Call 9982 1265 

Local emergency specialists, 7 days. Sales, 

service, installation. Warranty agents, fully 

accredited. 

KITCHENS 

Collaroy Kitchen Centre 

Call 9972 9300 

Danish design excellence. Local beaches 

specialists in kitchens, bathrooms and 

joinery. Visit the showroom in Collaroy. 


Melaleuca Landscapes 

Call Sandy 0416 276 066 

Professional design and construction 

for every garden situation. Sustainable 

vegetable gardens and waterfront 

specialist. 




Seabreeze Kitchens 

Call 9938 5477 

Specialists in all kitchen needs; design, fitting, 

consultation. Excellent trades. 

MASSAGE & FITNESS 

Avalon Physiotherapy 

Call 9918 3373 

Provide specialist treatment for neck & back 

pain, sports injuries, orthopaedic problems. 

PAINTING 

Cloud9 Painting 

Call 0447 999 929 

Your one-stop shop for home or office 

painting; interiors, exteriors and also roof 

painting. Call for a quote. 

Tom Wood Master Painters 

Call 0406 824 189 

Residential specialists in new work & 

repaints / interior & exterior. Premium 

paints; 17 years’ experience. 

PEST CONTROL 

Predator Pest Control 

Call 0417 276 962 

predatorpestcontrol.com.au 

Environmental services at their best. 

Comprehensive control. Eliminate all 

manner of pests. 

PLUMBING 

Total Pipe Relining 

Call Josh 0423 600 455 

Repair pipe problems without replacement. 

Drain systems fully relined; 50 years’ 

guaranty. Latest technology, best price. 

POSITION VACANT 

Practice Manager 

Call Sam on 0435 165 265. 

George & Matilda Eyecare for Mark Wilson 

Optometrists in Dee Why are looking for a 

Practice Manager. Call Sam on 0435 165 265. 




RUBBISH REMOVAL 

Jack’s Rubbish Removals 

Call Jack 0403 385 312 

Up to 45% cheaper than skips. Latest health 

regulations. Old-fashioned honesty & 

reliability. Free quotes. 

One 2 Dump 

Call Josh 0450 712 779 

Seven-days-a-week pick-up service includes 

general household rubbish, construction, 

commercial plus vegetation. Also car 

removals. 

SLIDING DOOR REPAIRS 

Beautiful Sliding Door Repairs 

Call 0407 546 738 

Fix anything that slides in your home; door 

specialists – wooden / aluminium. Free 

quote. Same-day repair; 5-year warranty. 

UPHOLSTERY 

Luxafoam North 

Call 0414 468 434 

Local specialists in all aspects of outdoor 

& indoor seating. Custom service, expert 

advice. 




Food Life 

with Janelle Bloom 


Recipes: janellebloom.com.au; Insta: instagram.com/janellegbloom/ 

Reasons the family will want 

‘Taco Tuesday’ every night! 

I 

don’t Pulled pork tacos 

Makes 12 (with leftover 

pulled pork) 

think a week passes when the 

good ol’ Mexican staple – tacos – are not 

on the menu at my place. There are so 

many reasons to love tacos; you can literally 

fill a taco with anything! Tacos can cross 

almost every cuisine and can be enjoyed for 

Traditional Tuesday 

night beef tacos 

Makes 12 

1 tbs olive oil 

1 small brown onion, finely 

chopped 

2 garlic cloves, crushed 

35g pkt Mexican seasoning 

800g beef mince 

1 cup beef stock 

12 crisp shell taco shells 

1 avocado, diced 

2 medium tomatoes, quartered, 

diced 

3/4 cup grated tasty cheddar 

cheese 

2 tbs chopped coriander or 

parsley 

thinly sliced red chilli, to serve 

sour cream, to serve 

5-10 minutes or until the 

stock has reduced and the 

mixture is thickened. Remove 

from heat. 

3. Meanwhile, heat taco 

shells in the oven following 

packet directions. 

4. To assemble, spoon beef in 

the base of each taco. Top 

with avocado, tomato, 

cheese, coriander and chilli. 

Serve with sour cream. 

Garlic prawn tacos 

with chipotle lime 

cream 

Makes 12 

breakfast, lunch, dinner… even dessert! And 

any which way, it is still a taco. So whether it’s 

‘Taco Tuesday’ or ‘Taco every day’ (it just so 

happens to be National Taco Day in October), 

let’s celebrate all things Taco. Hope you enjoy 

some of my faves! 

1. Combine the mayonnaise, 

sour cream, lime and 

chipotle. Place in the fridge 

until ready to serve. 

2. Heat a large non-stick 

frying pan over high heat. 

Cook tortillas, 1 at a time, for 

10-15 seconds each side or 

until light golden. Transfer to 

a plate. Cover to keep warm. 

3. Add the oil and garlic to the 

frying pan over medium 

heat. Cook stirring 2 minutes 

until aromatic. Stir in the 

Mexican spice. Increase heat 

to high, add the prawns, 

cook, shaking pan often until 

prawns turn pink and cooked 

through. Remove from the 

heat. 

4. Place tortillas on a serving 

board or plates. Spread 

with chipotle lime cream. 

Top with lettuce, capsicum, 

prawns, tomato, avocado 

and coriander. Fold tortillas 

to enclose filling. Serve 

with lime wedges. 

1 cup sour cream 

1 tbs sriracha 

12 flour tortillas 

40g mixed salad leaves 

½ small red cabbage, finely 

shredded 

2 cups corn kernels (fresh or 

canned) 

200g cherry tomatoes, 

quartered 

1 avocado, halved, thinly sliced 

100g feta, crumbled 

Pulled pork 


1.2kg pork shoulder or pork 

scotch fillet 

1 brown onion, finely chopped 

1 tbs ground paprika 

3 tsp ground cumin 

3 tsp ground coriander 

1 tsp dried chilli flakes 

400g can diced tomatoes 

1 cup chicken stock 

1. To make the pulled pork, 

preheat oven 130°C fan 

forced. Heat half the oil in a 

large flameproof (ovenproof 

and stovetop) casserole pan 

over medium-high heat. 

¼ cup whole-egg mayonnaise 

¼ cup sour cream 

½ lime, juiced 

1. Heat the oil in a large frying 1 tbs chipotle sauce 

pan over medium heat. 12 flour tortillas 

Add the onion and cook 2 tbs light olive oil 

stirring for 4 minutes. Add 4 garlic cloves, crushed 

the garlic and seasoning 1 tbs Mexican seasoning 

cook 1 minute. Increase 36 peeled green prawns 

heat to high, add the beef, ½ iceberg lettuce, shredded 

cook stirring and breaking 1 red capsicum, quartered, 

the lumps up with a wooden thinly sliced 

spoon until the beef is diced tomato and avocado, to 

browned. 

serve 

2. Add the stock, bring to boil, coriander leaves and lime 

reduce heat and simmer for wedges, to serve 



Add the pork and cook for 

10 minutes, turning until 

browned all over. Remove to 

a plate. Add the remaining 

oil in the pan. Add the onion, 

cook until onion softens. Add 

the spices. Cook, stirring, for 

1 minute or until aromatic. 

Add the tomatoes and stock. 

Bring to the boil. Return the 

pork to the pan. Reduce heat 

to low. 

2. Press a piece baking paper 

onto the surface then cover 

with a tight-fitting lid. Place 

into the oven. Cook for 3 

hours or until the pork is 

very tender. Remove the pork 

to a tray. Stand 5 minutes 

then use 2 forks to coarsely 

shred the pork. 

3. Meanwhile, bring the sauce 

in the pan to the boil over 

high heat. Boil for 5 minutes 

until reduces by half. Add the 

shredded pork. Remove from 

the heat. Season. 

4. Combine the sour cream and 

sriracha. Heat a large, nonstick 

frying pan over high 

heat. Cook tortillas, 1 at a 

time, for 10-15 seconds each 

side or until light golden. 

Transfer to a plate. Cover to 

keep warm. 


board or plates. Spread with 

sriracha cream. Top with 

pork, salad leaves, cabbage, 

corn, tomatoes, avocado and 

feta. Fold tortillas to enclose 

filling. Serve. 

Roasted sweet 

potato and black 

bean tacos with feta 

Makes 12 

1.25kg sweet potato, peeled, 

cut into 3cm pieces 



2-3 tbs Mexican seasoning 

400g can black beans, rinsed 

and drained 

12 flour tortillas 

1 cup sriracha mayonnaise 

1 cos lettuce, shredded 

2 avocadoes, chopped 

1 cup coriander leaves 

125g feta, crumbled 

lime wedges, to serve 

1. Preheat oven to 220°C fan 

forced. Line a baking tray 

with baking paper. Place 

the sweet potato on the 

tray. Combine the oil and 

seasoning, spoon over the 

sweet potato. Turn to coat. 

Spread in a single layer. Roast 

for 30 minutes or until tender 

and golden around the 

edges. Add the black beans, 

roast further 10 minutes until 

beans are warmed through 

and sweet potato golden all 

over. 

2. Heat a large non-stick 

frying pan over high heat. 

Cook tortillas, 1 at a time, for 

10-15 seconds each side or 

until light golden. Transfer to 

a plate. Cover to keep warm. 


For more recipes go to janellebloom.com.au 

board or plates. Spread 

with sriracha mayonnaise. 

Top with shredded lettuce, 

roasted sweet potato and 

beans, avocado, coriander 

and feta. Fold tortillas to 

enclose filling. Serve with 

lime wedges. 

Apple pie tacos 

Makes 12 

2 tbs cinnamon 

½ cup white sugar 

2 cups vegetable oil, for frying 

12 mini flour tortillas 

vanilla ice cream 

300ml thickened cream, to 

serve 

Apple pie filling 

800g can pie apple 

2 tbs caster sugar 

1 lemon, juiced 

1 tbs cornflour 

1 tbs cold water 

1. Combine cinnamon and 

sugar in a bowl. Mix well. 

2. Heat vegetable oil in a 

medium non-stick frying pan 

over medium heat. Using 

tongs, place the tortilla flat in 

the oil. Cook 20-30 seconds 

until very light golden 

(don’t overcook as they will 

become crisp and you won’t 

be able to fold them), turn 

and repeat on the other side. 

Remove with tongs to a wire 

rack. Quickly sprinkle both 

sides with cinnamon sugar. 

while hot, using tongs, fold 

the tortilla in half to form 

the shape of a taco. Repeat 

with remaining tortillas and 

cinnamon sugar. 

3. For the filling, place the 

apple, sugar and lemon juice 

in a non-stick frying pan 

over medium heat. Cook, 

stirring occasionally, for 5 

minutes until warm. Combine 

cornflour and water in a 

small bowl, stir until smooth. 

Add to the apple mixture. 

Bring to the boil, stirring 

occasionally, for 3-4 minutes 

until the juices thicken 

slightly and apple mixture is 

hot. Remove from heat. 

4. Spoon ice cream into the 

base of each taco. Top with 

warm apple pie filling and a 

dollop of cream. Serve. 

Janelle’s Tip: These are 

delicious filled with fresh fruit 

and cream or custard. 

OCTOBER 2023 71 

Food Life


Pick of the Month: 


Watermelon 

When Summer hits 

grated rind 1 lime, then cut 

there is nothing more in wedges 

refreshing than a piece of 

icy cold watermelon. Sweet 1. Place watermelon on a 

or savoury, this delicious large baking sheet and 

fruit will be a ‘must’ in every freeze until hardened, at 

Australian fridge over the least 2 hours. 

coming months. 

2. For the rim put salt, sugar, 

Watermelon don’t ripen and lime on a small plate 

after harvest, so they are 

and stir to combine. Use 

ripe and ready to eat once lime wedge to wet rim of 

picked. Select fruit with 

margarita glasses then 

hard skin, which feel heavy dip rims in salt mixture. 

and has a pleasant aroma. 3. Combine frozen watermelon, 

If cut, choose melon with lime juice, tequila, and triple 

bright pink-to-red-coloured, sec in a blender. Blend until 

firm flesh, with no signs of 

well combined. 

bruising. 

Store uncut fruit at room 

temperature for up to 1 

week. Once cut, wrap in 

plastic and store in the 

fridge. Use within 3 days. If 

cut from the skin, store in a 

glass, airtight container for 

1-2 days. 

Frozen watermelon 

margarita 

Makes 4 

4 cups chopped watermelon 

¼ cup freshly squeezed lime 

juice 

½ cup silver tequila 

¼ cup triple sec 

lime and mint, to garnish 

For the rim 

2 tbs kosher salt 

1 tbs granulated sugar 

mixed 

4. Pour into glasses. Garnish 

with lime and mint. 

Tip: For a kid friendly 

version, replace the tequila 

and triple sec with ¾ cup 

clear apple juice. 

In Season 

October 

Bananas, blueberries, 

blackberries, 

strawberries, 

grapefruit, 

Australian valencia 

oranges; mangoes, 

watermelon, 

tangelos, 

passionfruit, 

pineapples; also 

avocado, asparagus, 

Asian greens, 

beans; broccolini, 

beetroot; cabbage, 

chilli, cucumber, 

Australian garlic, 

fennel, zucchini peas 

(podded), sugar snap 

peas & snow peas. 



Tasty Morsels 

with Beverley Hudec 

Some Tiny Morsels to savour in October 

Tella everyone about 

this Mona sweet spot 

Mona Vale’s contemporary dessert 

bar, Tella Balls, pimps those signature 

brioche donut balls, pancakes, crepes 

and waffles to the max. Let loose 

with ice cream-stuffed balls dripping 

in chocolate, caramel sauce and 

Nutella, then topped with a confection 

of popping candy, marshmallows, 

sprinkles and much, much more. 

A cocktails 'triple 

treat' at Jonah's 

Three pretty mocktails, a collaboration 

with local business Seadrift Distillery 

and a terrace blessed with views make 

Jonah’s summer-ready. Each drink 

features one of the brand’s nonalcoholic 

‘spirits’ mixed with pops of 

fruit and spices. Pink Panther blushes 

with Seadrift’s Coast, pomegranate, 

vanilla, lemon and Fever Tree soda. 

Get your 

sandwich fill at 

Palmy, Pronto! 

Pronto Creative Foods is a 

welcome pit stop for weekend 

road warriors. The Palm Beach 

cafe has coffee from Oberon’s 

Fish River Roasters, as well 

as a menu of breakfast and 

lunchtime eats. Morning feeds 

include eggs Benny, corn 

fritters and bircher muesli. 

Lunch kicks in at 11am with 

chunky sandwiches, wraps 

and burgers. 

Oliver's delivers a 

Mexican standout 

All eyes on the pies. Oliver’s Pies won 

11 medals in the recent Official Great 

Aussie Pie Competition. The North 

Avalon pie shop’s Mexican beef pie is 

one of the eight gold medal winners. 

Owner Daniel Roberts said this pie 

is also the shop’s most popular. The 

smoked fish, vegetarian Mexican and 

satay chicken also picked up gold. 

Tasty Morsels 


Three of a kind: Going gourmet 

Palm Beach Wine Co 

(left) is worth a visit for 

a browse alone. Half the 

store is dedicated to wines 

from around the world; 

the remainder is filled with 

anything and everything a 

passionate foodie or a giftseeker 

could possibly want. 

The store also makes up 

bespoke hampers featuring 

wine, artisanal goodies and 

homewares. 

Le Petit Marche brings 

a little taste of France to 

Newport’s Roberson Rd. The 

gourmet providore stocks 

its shelves with French 

wines, artisan goodies, 

condiments and homewares. 

There’s everything from La 

Mortuacienne lemonade to 

soaps, scarves and freshly 

made baguettes packed with 

goodies from the deli. 

Mona Vale’s Quattro Stagioni 

is more cafe than deli. 

Whatever the season, sip a 

morning coffee at one of the 

outdoor tables, or order a spot 

of lunch or a little sweet treat. 

Inside, shelves are stocked 

with Italian condiments and 

goodies. The deli counter 

features cheeses, cold meats 

and a variety of Italian salumi. 


Pittwater Puzzler 

Compiled by David Stickley 

Pittwater Puzzler 

ACROSS 

1 Position held by Heidi Currie at 

Narrabeen Sports High School (9) 

6 Printing device (5) 

9 A coral island consisting of a circular 

belt of coral enclosing a central 

lagoon (5) 

10 Supporting group that runs 

local stalls at Pittwater Place and 

Bunnings Belrose to raise funds for 

Mona Vale 16-across (9) 

11 Artist and member of Dog 

Trumpet, Chris O’Doherty, is also 

known as Reg ________ (8) 

12 Body of water that’s a major 

feature of Narrabeen (6) 

14 The spiral shell of a gastropod, 

often used as a trumpet (5) 

16 A medical institution where sick 

or injured people are given medical 

or surgical care (8) 

18 A tall thin person (8) 

20 Extremely small in scale, scope 

or capability (5) 

23 Widely known people (6) 

24 The original homestead at 

Currawong (8) 

26 Implicating (9) 

28 A statement of the aims of an 

advertising campaign, etc (5) 

29 BBQ sausage-turners (5) 

30 Contrary to accepted or expected 

modes of behaviour (9) 

DOWN 

1 Type of business located at 347 

Barrenjoey Rd, Newport (8) 

2 Surf lifesaving event that involves 

swimming, board paddling, ski 

paddling and running (7) 

3 Eyelashes (anatomy) (5) 

4 Long-running ABC TV program for 

kids (4,6) 

5 Loose (3) 

6 Local name for 16 Ocean Rd, Palm 

Beach, a one-time dance hall (9) 

7 Suburb on the hill above 

Narrabeen, _______ Heights (7) 

8 A maxim, proverb, adage, etc. (6) 

13 Introducing; launching (8,2) 

15 Small ringers played by local Phil 

Allan (9) 

17 Ninox strenua is also known as 

the ________ owl (8) 

19 Invigorate (7) 

21 Coal miner (7) 

22 Text of a play (6) 

25 Custom (5) 

27 Promissory note (1,1,1) 

[Solution page 78] 



Times Past 

All ‘hail’ the Northern Beaches 

were torn to shreds and 

the rooves of caravans severely 

‘Tents 

damaged’ – this was a common 

headline in the 1950s, especially in 1953 

and 1956 when several severe hailstorms 

pummelled the peninsula. 

On Wednesday 6 May 1953, many of 

the ‘permanent’ residents and children 

of the camping area at Avalon Beach 

spent the night in the Avalon Beach Surf 

Life Saving Club, such was the ferocity of 

the hailstorm which began shortly before 

2pm. It lasted around three hours but the 

stormwater which accompanied it raced 

through the tents, homes and flooded 

the shopping centre. For almost an hour, 

vehicles from either direction were unable 

to pass through Avalon Beach and 

the loss of stock from retail businesses 

mounted to several hundreds of pounds. 

According to reports, some of the 

hailstones measured “2 and a half inches 

diameter” and besides destroying many of 

the tents, the rain swept away floor coverings, 

food supplies and beach gear into Careel 

Creek and eventually into Careel Bay. 

Mr Le Clercq’s general store (now 

Ecodownunder) suffered more damage 

than most with the loss of around 250 

pounds’ ($500) worth of stock as the 

resultant half a metre of flood waters 

swirled through his store. 

As with the more recent floods in 1974, 

several cars were almost ‘drowned’; with 

one deposited on the footpath in Old Barrenjoey 

Road. 

The Avalon News of September 1956 

reported that “the organisers of the 

annual Flower Show and Fete were holding 

their collective breaths that the hail in the 

last week of August didn’t play havoc with 

the gardens.” 

The hailstorm was part of a general 

deluge which broke over all the Northern 

Beaches. 

A photo of the Palm Beach golf course 

WHITE-OUT: A blanket 

of hail – looking east 

down Avalon Parade 

with Wickham Lane to 

the right behind the 

Morris minor, and with 

the two intersections 

further on; Palm Beach 

golf course in August 

1956; Geoff Searl’s 

Dad took this photo of 

the family backyard in 

Avalon Parade on the 

same day. 

shows it covered with a complete white 

blanket, turning the greens into ‘whites’. 

Records indicate that hailstorms have 

increased to almost 12 per year over the 

past 15 years and tend to form November 

to March in Sydney. 

It appears that the destruction which 

the 1953 event caused may have led to 

the eventual demise of the semi-permanent 

camp. 

Some 43 families were living at the 

camp at the time, when The Sydney 

Morning Herald of 27 May 1953 noted 

that the camp “… would close down in 3 

months’ time”. 

The site hire for the families was 10 

shillings a week ($1) and would hardly 

have covered costs for Warringah Shire 

Council. 

TIMES PAST is supplied by local historian 

and President of the Avalon Beach 

Historical Society GEOFF SEARL. Visit 

the Society’s showroom in Bowling 

Green Lane, Avalon Beach. 

Times Past 



Garden Life 

with Gabrielle Bryant 


Plant decorative geraniums 

for sweet-perfumed gardens 

The humble geranium 

that was so popular in 

the 1950s has made a 

startling comeback in the past 

few years. 

Geraniums are all members 

of the pelargonium family. They 

all love the sun, and they will 

grow in poor soil and exposed 

salty conditions – they hate 

wet feet and damp conditions. 

While they are tough and hardy, 

as with any plant, they will 

perform and thrive best with 

some regular fertiliser and 

water in the summer months. 

They are diverse and very 

different in their appearance. 

There are the scented varieties, 

the upright zonal geraniums, 

and the ivy geraniums that 

climb or trail from baskets and 

pots. 

Scented geraniums are grown 

for the aromatic decorative 

leaves and flowers that can 

be used in baking cakes and 

cookies, in ice creams, desserts, 

in salads and in teas. 

The scented geraniums are 

decorative, with varying leaf 

shape – from indented leaves 

(of slightly velvety appearance), 

to finely cut leaves that have 

a lacy texture. The colours 

range from soft grey to bright 

green, and some are variegated 

depending on the variety. The 

flowers are delicate and small, 

with soft colours from pale 

pinks to lilac or white. 

There are so many fragrances 

to choose from: Peppermint, 

lemon, pine, rose, citrus, 

nutmeg, mint, lime, chocolate 

peppermint… but my favourite 

is cinnamon with its large green 

indented leaves and soft pink 

flowers that are splashed with 

red (pictured below). 

Plant scented geraniums 

where you will brush past them 

and fill the air with their sweet 

fragrance. 

After more than a dozen 

years of cross breeding zonal 

and ivy geraniums we now 

have the amazing calliope 

geraniums. ‘Big’ geraniums 

(above) are brilliant, with huge 

heads of colour; they are tough 

and hardy, tolerating dry spells 

once established. The plants 

stay compact with a semitrailing 

habit inherited from 

their ivy ancestors. As they 

develop the plants grow into a 

thick mounded shape, making 

them ideal for pots or in the 

garden. 

The Big geraniums will flower 

in spring, summer and into the 

late autumn. 

Geraniums are the easiest 

plants to propagate. Geranium 

cuttings are taken at any time 

of the year but will strike more 

quickly during the warmer 

months. Take stem cuttings 

from strong tip growth that 

is 12-14cm in length. Cut just 

below a leaf. Remove all the 

larger leaves just leaving the 

growing tip with foliage. 

Either put your cuttings into 

a 14cm jar of water where they 

will soon develop new roots, or 

plant them into small pots of 

damp soil. 



Rock Rose solid choice 

Mediterranean Rock Rose is 

a small shrub that is native 

to the dry rocky coastline of 

the Mediterranean. It grows 

just 60-70cm tall, needing 

little attention. To keep it 

bushy, pinch out the new-tip 

growth in between the bursts 

of flower. It can be regularly 

trimmed but will not be happy 

if it is cut back too hard into 

the old wood. 

The soft silvery grey foliage 

is smothered by pale pink, 

papery flowers from late 

spring onwards into summer. 

Other colours available are 

white, cerise, purple and 

multi-coloured. The flowers 

are short-lived but replaced 

daily with new ones. If rain or 

wind damages them, not to 

worry: the morning will bring 

a fresh display of colour. 

This small shrub is best in 

mass planting along sunny 

pathways or covering rocky 

banks. It mixes beautifully 

with purple lavender, all the 

salvias, prostrate rosemary, 

bright yellow gazanias and 

blue felicia daisies. 

Little Ewan a Bush baby 

As gardens get smaller, so do plants. It’s amazing how 

breeders keep developing new plants for tiny gardens 

and patios. The New Zealand Christmas Bush is flowering 

now and will continue to spot-flower throughout the year. 

There are many 

varieties and 

cultivars available 

that will develop 

into hedges, wind 

breaks and privacy 

screens that are 

salt-tolerant, hardy 

and undemanding. 

Some have grey 

foliage and others 

are shiny green with 

bronze new tips. But 

all will grow several 

metres tall – now 

with the new Little 

Ewan there is one 

that is perfect for 

pots, low-growing 

hedges or as a 

specimen shrub in 

the garden. 

Little Ewan has brilliant scarlet flowers, red new growth, 

and all the hardy, salt-tolerant attributes of its bigger 

brothers but will only reach a height of 1m tall. It’s perfect 

to replace buxus and small-growing lilly pillies in full sun or 

part shade. 


Viburnum Copper is tops 

Hedges are fast replacing 

garden beds and 

boundary fences, with 

murraya, lilly pilly and green 

viburnum hedges being 

the most popular. When 

they flower these hedges 

add colour and life to the 

landscape; yet at other times 

the plain green background 

can be uninspiring. 

Hedges need to be regularly 

clipped to keep their shape; 

this is where shrubs with 

coloured new growth can liven 

up the garden. 

Viburnum Emerald Lustre 

has taken pride of place 

in the past few years, but 

now it should step back 

for a newcomer. Viburnum 

Coppertop has all the same 

attributes as its cousin 

Emerald Lustre, but all the 

new-tip growth is vibrant 

bronze. It will flower in spring 

to give your garden a lift as 


the weather warms up, with 

lacy white daisies to lighten 

the garden. 

As a bonus the leaves are 

smaller and the growth rate 

is slower and more compact 

than the much-loved Emerald 

Lustre, making it more 

suitable for smaller gardens 

and lower hedges. 

Trim to any shape – a 

hedge, a column, or keep it as 

a tidy ball in a large pot. 




October 

Jobs this Month 

It is time to get the summer 

veggies growing if you have 

not already done so. It is a bit 

late to sow seed, so seedlings 

are the way to go. Sometimes 

sowing seeds can produce too 

many plants; for a family, just 

3 or 4 plants will often do. 

As you plant new seedlings 

protect them well from snails 

and slugs with Multiguard snail 

pellets. These are harmless to 

birds and wildlife. 

Pick again 

Plant eggplants, capsicum, 

tomatoes, cucumbers, chillies 

and beans. If space is really 

limited just plant the veggies 

that your family uses on a 

weekly basis. Pick-and-pickagain 

vegetables are the most 

productive, such as tomatoes, 

beans, cucumbers, silverbeet 

and zucchinis. Re-plant 

seeds or seedlings of carrots, 

lettuce, pak choi and spring 

onions at two-weekly intervals 

rather that filling the veggie 

patch all in one day. 

Bindie watch 

Watch out, bindies are back! 

Spray them now before the 

seeds ripen. It is easier to 

spray now with a selective 

weed killer than to sit on a 

cushion with a trowel and to 

dig them out one by one once 

their spikey seeds are ripe. If 

you have a buffalo lawn, check 

with the garden centre before 

buying a weed control to 

make sure that the chemical is 

suitable, buffalo grass is very 

sensitive (Yates Buffalo Pro 

hose-on is an easy way to go). 

Attract bees 

Remember to plant some 

flowers to attract the 

bees amongst your veggie 

seedlings to encourage the 

bees. A weekly spray with 

Bee Keeper will keep the bees 

pollinating your crops. 

Hibiscus trim 

This is your last chance to 

shape and trim back hibiscus 

(above) before summer. 

Feed the bushes now with a 

complete fertiliser and apply 

a top dressing of cow manure 

to get the new growth that will 

produce the flowers. 

Summer planning 

Think ahead for summer and 

pot up some pots and baskets 

that will flower the summer 

ahead. Mix and match annual 

flowering seedlings that will 

fill tubs and planters. Lobelia, 

petunias, alyssum, nasturtiums, 

dianthus, geraniums, swan 

river daisies, impatiens and 

variegated ivy grow together. 

Remember to keep sun loving 

plants together and keep the 

shade-lovers separate. 

Other tasks 

Feed spring bulbs as they 

die down and resist the 

temptation to cut off dying 

foliage. As the leaves die 

down, they are feeding 

the bulbs underground 

and forming next year’s 

flowers… It is forecast to 

be a hot dry summer, so 

prepare for bushfire season. 

Clean gutters, trim back 

foliage that overhangs 

your roof and sweep up 

any leaves or litter that is 

close to the house… The 

best help that you can give 

your garden is weekly deep 

watering and plenty of mulch 

to keep the moisture in the 

soil. 

Crossword solution from page 74 

Mystery location: CHURCH POINT 



Travel Life 

Arnhem Land: Taste of the Unexpected 

The year was 1989. The place: 

Kakadu National Park, Northern 

Territory. I’d hiked to the top of a 

sandstone plateau, where I stood gazing 

out over floodplains that seemed 

to stretch forever, just as the sun was 

setting. 

“That’s Arnhem Land, over there,” I 

remember overhearing someone say, 

hinting at endless discoveries to be 

had. 

More than 30 years later, I learned 

about Outback Spirit’s 13-day Arnhem 

Land Wilderness Adventure. The 

small-group tour runs from Nhulunbuy 

across to Darwin with everything included 

– and entry permits, notoriously difficult to obtain, would 

be arranged by the company. 

I invited my mother to join me; without my father, she’d been 

a little bit lost and it had been a long time since we’d travelled 

together. Mum didn’t need much convincing. “Oh, that sounds 

wonderful,” she gushed. As well as promising spectacular landscapes 

and teeming wildlife, the tour would be a cultural lesson 

for both of us, travelling through Aboriginal land continuously 

occupied for 60,000 years. 

Neither of us knew what to expect, and I certainly hadn’t 

anticipated Mum bringing Dad along with us. Each time we arrived 

at a new lodge or safari camp, she’d unpack her suitcase 

and place a small, framed photo of him on her bedside table. 

Our own, personal outback spirit was 

looking over us. 

I most looked forward to the numerous 

wildlife safaris, and these exceeded 

my expectations. At dawn on 

our first morning at Murwangi Safari 

Camp, a buffalo herd strolled past 

our tent, snorted, then trotted away 

when they heard me giggling. On our 

last morning, a dingo family appeared 

out of the scrub onto the road in front 

of us as we headed towards Kennedy 

Beach from Seven Spirit Bay. Even saltwater 

crocodile tracks had been left in 

the sand before we got there. 

We both knew the tour would be an 

eye-opener culturally, and we hoped to learn and understand 

more about Indigenous life and history. Our Welcome Ceremony 

on the Gove Peninsula’s Wirrwawuy Beach was a gentle introduction 

that was followed by a round-circle sit-down, where generations 

of knowledge were passed on about bush medicine. Some 

in the group listed it among their trip highlights. 

But the highlight for me? Without a doubt, it was when my 

mother reeled in a 2.5-kilo barramundi at the back of our boat 

while we fished on the Liverpool River. “We used to go yabbying 

in the farm dam when we were kids, but this is the first fish I’ve 

ever caught in my life,” she confessed. Proof, that you can never 

guess what surprises Arnhem Land has in store. – Mark Daffey 

*For more info call Travel View on 9918 4444 






8 reasons to sea 

kayak in Tassie 

Tasmania is an island of untamed 

beauty, brimming with breathtaking 

coastlines, secluded coves and 

unique wildlife. Experiencing Tasmania 

on a sea kayaking adventure offers 

a unique lens through which to savour 

our island state’s hidden gems. 

Southern Sea Adventures’ Senior 

Guide Toby Story lists the 8 reasons 

you should consider a sea kayaking 

adventure for your next Tasmanian 

holiday: 

1. Connect with nature 

“From tranquil bays to craggy cliffs, 

Tasmania’s diverse landscapes provide 

a visually stunning backdrop for 

kayakers.” 

2. Encounter unique wildlife 

“Spot endemic and rare species like 

the Australian fur seal, dolphins, and 

various seabirds as you glide along 

Tasmania’s majestic coastlines.” 

3. Discover hidden gems 

“Getting off the beaten track (literally) 

and into the seat of a kayak will 

take you to stunning secret spots 

most tourists never see.” 

4. Glide crystal clear waters 

“Tasmania’s clear coastal waters 

offer excellent visibility, ideal for 

observing marine life and enjoying 

the scenery.” 

5. Mild summer climate 

“Tasmania’s generally temperate 

summer weather is ideal for outdoor 

activities like kayaking, making it 

comfortable to spend a day on the 

water.” 

6. Minimise your impact 

“Done properly, kayaking can be a 

low-impact way to enjoy Tasmania’s 

pristine natural beauty.” 

7. Easily incorporate adventure 

“With many kayaking routes in easy 

reach of Hobart, it’s easy to incorporate 

kayaking into your wider 

Tasmanian holiday.” 

8. Nourish body & soul 

“Beyond being a physical workout, 

kayaking in such a unique and 

beautiful setting offers a chance for 

mental and spiritual rejuvenation. 

Arrive home feeling refreshed and 

invigorated!” 

Your ideal Tasmanian 

adventure awaits 

Southern Sea Ventures has a carefully designed 

portfolio of Tasmanian sea kayaking adventures, 

with kayaking equipment all included, and 

expert guides ready to show you the best this 

island has to offer – no matter your appetite for 

adventure. 

Luxury meets adventure: 

Three Capes & Bruny Island Paddles 

Seeking an active yet indulgent mini-break? 

Southern Sea Ventures offers two 4-day, lodgebased 

trips – Three Capes Paddle and Bruny 

Island Paddle – each suited to paddlers of all 

skill levels, and featuring stays at the luxurious 

Bolthole accommodation, complete with locally 

sourced meals and beverages. 

Up the adrenaline: 

Freycinet Peninsula Kayak Expedition 

Craving an even more adventurous outdoor 

escapade? The 6-day Freycinet Peninsula Kayak 

Expedition is your match. This moderate-grade 

expedition blends kayaking and hiking, featuring 

an ascent to either Mt Graham or Mt Freycinet. 

Get away from it all with 5 nights of beach camping 

and a truly immersive adventure getaway. 

*More info southernseaventures.com or contact 

ssvtrips@southernseaventures.com to 

book your Tasmanian sea kayaking holiday. 



Welcome to Uniworld Luxury Travel 

When it comes to luxury travel experiences, 

Uniworld Boutique River 

Cruises sets the bar high. Renowned for 

their exceptional service, attention to 

detail, and unique itineraries, Uniworld 

has become a favourite among discerning 

travellers seeking unforgettable holidays. 

Offering truly all-inclusive itineraries 

in Europe, as well as voyages in Vietnam 

and Cambodia, India, Peru and Egypt – 

covering a total of 20 rivers in 28 countries 

worldwide – there is something for 

every traveller. 

“They have 17 one-of-a-kind awardwinning 

ships, and each exquisitely 

appointed Uniworld river cruise ship is a 

work of art designed to be as exceptional 

as their guests and as inspiring as the 

destinations they visit,” says Travel View’s 

Sharon Godden. 

Uniworld’s ‘Highlights of Eastern 

Europe’ itinerary takes travellers on a 

remarkable journey through some of the 

area’s most captivating and culturally rich 

destinations. “From the enchanting cities 

of Budapest and Belgrade to the hidden 

gems of Croatia and Bulgaria, this itinerary 

promises an immersive experience 

that will leave lasting memories,” says 

Sharon. 

She adds that Uniworld’s commitment 

to luxury is evident in every aspect of the 

journey. “Guests are accommodated in 

elegantly appointed staterooms or suites, 

each designed with the utmost attention 

to detail. The onboard amenities including 

world-class dining, stylish lounges, 

and a spa ensure that guests have a truly 

indulgent experience throughout their 

voyage.” 

One of the highlights of this itinerary 

is the opportunity to delve into the rich 

cultural heritage of Eastern Europe. 

“It offers a range of immersive excursions 

and experiences that allow guests 

to explore the local history, traditions, 

and cuisine,” says Sharon. “Whether it’s 

a visit to the UNESCO World Heritagelisted 

sites of Budapest and Ivanovo, 

a private concert with wine tasting in 

Belgrade’s Saint Sava Cathedral, a visit to 

a medieval fortress on the banks of the 

Danube River, or a walking tour through 

the charming streets of Ruse, every day 

brings new discoveries. 

“And Uniworld’s dedication to personalised 

service and attention to detail truly 

sets them apart. With a high staff-toguest 

ratio, every need is catered to, 

ensuring a seamless and memorable journey. 

From a warm welcome upon arrival 

to the impeccable service throughout the 

cruise, their staff go above and beyond to 

exceed expectations. 

“And you can say goodbye to hidden 

fees and hello to a stress-free holiday 

where everything is taken care of!” 

Uniworld’s all-inclusive amenities 

ensure that every aspect of your journey 

is covered, from gourmet “farm-to-table” 

dining to unlimited beverages, premium 

wines and spirits, a selection of carefully 

curated excursions in every port visited, 

ship-wide Wi-Fi, yoga and TRX fitness 

classes, gratuities, airport transfers, and 

even self-service laundry. 

*To book or for more information – and 

your free brochure – call Travel View on 

9918 4444.

Pittwater Life October 2023 Issue

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